A California woman is facing nearly 100 counts of animal cruelty after authorities made a horrifying discovery inside a U-Haul van packed with cats in the summer heat.
According to the Merced County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded Sunday to a Taco Bell parking lot in Santa Nella, where a van was reported to be full of distressed animals. Through the vehicle’s windows, a deputy spotted at least 20 visibly emaciated cats. Animal control was immediately called to the scene.
Upon entering the van, officials found a total of 134 cats — 106 alive but severely malnourished, and 28 already dead. The animals, ranging from one week to eight years old, had no access to food or water in the sweltering interior.
The woman identified as the van’s owner, 69-year-old Jeannie Maxon of Long Beach, was arrested and charged with 93 counts of animal cruelty. Authorities said the case is still under investigation.
All surviving cats were transported to the Merced County Animal Shelter for medical care. Once cleared, they will be made available for adoption.
The Sheriff’s Office shared the incident on social media, using it as a stark reminder of the dangers of leaving animals in confined vehicles during warm weather.
“On a warm day, temperatures inside a car can soar to extreme levels in just minutes — even with the windows cracked,” the department wrote. “This can lead to heatstroke, dehydration, and death.”
This case echoes a similar one from earlier this year in New York, where another woman was charged after police found 10 dead animals and numerous neglected pets in her home.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspected animal neglect.
