CASS COUNTY, MI (WSBT) — More than 220 animals were removed from a single Cass County home, sparking an animal cruelty investigation.
Authorities said the discovery included everything from dogs and ducks to frogs and even a snapping turtle, and it’s not the first time this homeowner has been in trouble.
So, what led the authorities to the home to begin with?
This seizure comes after investigators served a search warrant and uncovered hundreds of animals inside.
Animal control officers arrived Tuesday morning at a home on Lilac Avenue in Howard Township.
What was found was shocking.
More than 220 animals were living in crammed and potentially unsafe conditions.
The animals included dogs, rabbits, ducks, guinea pigs, fish, doves, gerbils, chickens, doves, crawfish, frogs, and even a snapping turtle.
“228 different animals inside the residents that we seized and took back to the Animal Control Center where they’re being taken care of and making sure they’re healthy,” said Sheriff Clinton Roach, (R) Cass County Sheriff’s Office.
Those animals remain with Cass County Animal Control.
Their condition when taken from the home is unknown.
Police said the investigation began after a tip led them to suspect a large-scale case of animal hoarding.
“We’re familiar with the suspect, who at this time we’re seeking a warrant for,” said Roach.
According to the sheriff and neighbors, this isn’t the first time this person has had animals removed.
“He’s been caught before. Now I heard on the news he got caught again,” said William Everman, neighbor.
The discovery has stunned neighbors, including Everman, who said while he never saw animals outside, he’s disturbed by what was happening just doors away.
“Oh, that’s too many. You can’t take care of that many dogs, animals. There’s no way. That doesn’t make me happy. My dogs are taken care of before me, before I am. So that’s how I am. Make sure they take care of,” said Everman.
The suspect’s name is being withheld for now, but charges could include animal neglect and having more animals than legally allowed.
Investigators expect to turn the case over to the prosecutor within days.
Police said once charges are filed, they’ll seek full custody of the animals through a legal forfeiture process so they can find them homes.
“Take care of them. So, you know, that’s all I ask. If you’re going to do that kind of thing, you can’t do it without a license,” said Everman.
Officials said this remains an ongoing investigation.
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