MENTOR, Ohio — Editor's Note: The above video is from previous reporting about Lake Humane Society
A search warrant executed on Tuesday by the Lake Humane Society Humane Investigations Division revealed that over 100 cats were living in unsanitary conditions at a location in Madison Township.
According to Lake Humane Society Executive Director Lori Caszatt, the search warrant was obtained and granted as a result of multiple complaints about the conditions of the cats and the facility they were living in, including complaints from people directly affiliated with the operation of the facility.
Upon entering the Madison Twp. facility, the Lake Humane Society Humane Agent and veterinarian observed unsanitary conditions and determined the medical state of a majority of the cats was critical. Over 100 cats were removed from the property. The investigation is ongoing.
Tuesday's news comes as Lake Humane Society is reporting a steady increase in animal neglect and cruelty cases.
"In 2021, we had 403 suspected cases of animal cruelty and neglect," Caszatt told 3News' Brandon Simmons. That number marks a 24% increase from the year prior.
In Lake County, animal neglect calls are steadily increasing, some of which are bad enough to lead to prosecution. Caszatt believes COVID-19 is a contributing factor as most cases involve malnourishment.
"Many people have also lost their jobs. They’re not able to feed their pets, they’re not able to take them to the veterinarian for routine exams and vaccinations which is also a concern," she added.
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