WARNING – DISTRESSING PHOTOS – In a horrific case of animal cruelty, police discovered over 100 cats in dire conditions, and sadly for some it was too late.
Authorities uncovered a disturbing case of animal cruelty over the weekend when 134 cats were found crammed inside a van parked at a Taco Bell in Santa Nella, California. Tragically, 28 of the animals were already dead.
Jeannie Maxon, 69, of Long Beach, was arrested and charged with 93 counts of animal cruelty after the shocking discovery was made on Sunday evening.
The Merced County Sheriff’s Office reported that Deputy Ross responded to the scene around 5:30 p.m. following concerns from the public. Peering through the van’s window, he spotted at least 20 cats in visible distress. Animal Control was called in and ultimately found 106 severely malnourished and dehydrated cats, along with the remains of 28 others.
“There was no food or water available inside the vehicle,” the sheriff’s office stated. “The cats were found in 90-degree heat, with some crammed into the dashboard and other confined areas of the van.”
The animals ranged in age from just one week to eight years old. Many appeared disoriented, sick, and malnourished. Emergency assistance was provided by the Atwater Veterinary Center to begin treatment for the surviving cats.
Photos shared by the sheriff’s office show the dire conditions inside the van — filthy surfaces, cramped spaces, and visibly distressed animals.
Maxon has since been booked into Merced County Jail. The case remains under investigation.
With scorching temperatures continuing across the country, officials used the case to urge the public not to leave pets inside vehicles during hot weather.
“In just minutes, a vehicle can become dangerously hot, even with the windows cracked,” the department warned. “This can quickly lead to dehydration, heatstroke, or death.”
Authorities confirmed that once the rescued cats are deemed healthy, they will be placed up for adoption.
According to data from Shelter Animals Count, nearly 10 million animals die due to abuse or neglect each year in the U.S. Additionally, around 250,000 animals are found annually in hoarding situations, often enduring filthy and life-threatening conditions.
