The state was granted legal custody of 71 animals — 66 canines, four felines and a cockatiel — by the Wiscasset District Court, Animal Welfare Program Director Norma Worley announced today.

The animals were seized from the Somerville home of Fern Clark Jan. 19 after the state investigated allegations she was operating a puppy mill.

Clark was charged with five counts of aggravated animal cruelty Jan. 30. At the hearing, Clark maintained her innocence and refused to relinquish legal control of the animals, which were removed to different animal shelters and humane societies in central and southern Maine.

Clark’s refusal spurred Animal Welfare Program officials to seek custody of the animals.

Worley said most of the animals will be available for adoption in the future.