[naviga:h3]Nurse accused of taking explicit photos[/naviga:h3]

PITTSBURGH — A nurse is accused of taking inappropriate photos of at least 17 elderly patients — some of them unclothed — and sending them to a former co-worker.

A Pittsburgh newspaper reports that 30-year-old Ashley Ann Smith of Dravosburg faces 30 counts including invasion of privacy and abuse of care.

Authorities allege in a criminal complaint that Smith took the photos while working as a licensed practical nurse at Kane McKeesport Community Living Center, which said it fired Smith and notified patients, and when appropriate, their families.

The criminal complaint calls the images “explicit and private” and alleges that “some have the sole purpose to humiliate the patient.”

Defense attorney Frank Walker declined to discuss the allegations but said his client “stands firmly on” the constitutional presumption of innocence.

[naviga:h3]47 dogs removed from home, 10 dead[/naviga:h3]

PULASKI — Animal welfare authorities say almost 50 dogs have been removed from a Western Pennsylvania home where another 10 dogs were found dead.

The Humane Society of Mercer County says the 47 living dogs were found during a Friday night raid on a home in Shenango Township. An official called it “probably one of the hardest calls we’ve ever been on.”

Humane society officer Courtney Ivan said about 14 of the dogs were in crates and the rest were running free throughout the house.

Officials said humane officers had to use hazardous materials suits inside due to the large amount of feces.

Ivan says none of the living dogs were emaciated, but none had received veterinary care and several were pregnant.