MT. CLEMENS, Mich. (WXYZ) — The Macomb County Prosecutor has brought charges against a Mt. Clemens resident after 86 cats and one dog were found in "deplorable conditions" inside her home as she was being evicted in March.
Macomb County Prosecutor Eric Smith has charged the 62-year-old woman with animal cruelty of 25 or more animals, which carries a felony sentence of up to seven years.
“Every time we see animals living in these appalling conditions it breaks your heart," Smith said. "Animal cruelty will never be tolerated and we will prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law.”
On March 28, Macomb County Animal Control and deputies from the Macomb County Sheriff's Department were called to a home on Roseview Boulevard in Mt. Clemens as the resident was being evicted.
Deputies and animal control removed 86 cats and one dog from the home, and placed them in the Macomb County Animal Shelter.
“It is a sad situation for all parties, the animals that aren’t being properly cared for, the owner who is unable to provide for and keep up with animals that continue to reproduce, and the community that lives with the infested climate. It is in these cases, that law enforcement must step in to protect everyone involved,” said Sheriff Anthony Wickersham.
According to a release, most of the animals were sick and unadoptable. The resident was required to seek mental evaluation at a hospital for her condition.
Following that evaluation, the prosecutor's office issued a warrant for her arrest.
The Macomb County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate the incident.
