CHARLES TOWN, W.Va. — Jefferson County Animal Control rescued 52 cats and discovered 18 deceased animals during what officials say is the largest cat seizure in the county’s history. JC Animal Control Officer Sherrie Farmer responded to that September 12th call and talked about the case on Thursday’s Panhandle Live.
Once inside, officers discovered unsanitary conditions, empty cages and a strong ammonia odor. Their investigation led them to a second property on Daniel Road, where they found cats housed in sheds. Many of the animals were in poor health, and 18 cats were found deceased, wrapped in bags. Jefferson County Sheriff’s Lt. Robert Sell said the community jumped to help relocate the cats:
The cats cannot be considered for rehoming until the legal proceedings are resolved. Lt. Sell said with this being an unprecedented seizure, they needed a new facility to keep the kittens
As for how the community can help:
Both stressed that if someone is unable to care for animals, the first step is to reach out for help.
The Journal reported that Animal Control Officer (ACO) Farmer responded to a call reporting possible animal cruelty at a residence on Belgian Way in the Breckenridge subdivision outside Charles Town. The caller alleged the homeowner had multiple sick cats.
Farmer, along with ACO Boehning, visited the home and made contact with the resident, identified as Teressa Robinson. According to officials, Robinson initially refused to allow entry. However, the officers observed conditions outside and were provided photographs of cats and the interior. Based on those observations, Farmer obtained a search warrant.
Once inside, officers discovered unsanitary conditions, empty cages and a strong ammonia odor. Their investigation led them to a second property on Daniel Road, where they found cats housed in sheds. Many of the animals were in poor health, and 18 cats were found deceased, wrapped in bags.
The investigation remains ongoing and charges are pending. Authorities emphasized that all suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Panhandle News Network reporter Luke Wiggs contributed to this story.
