The ASPCA removed 27 animals from a squalid Ocean Hill apartment on June 17.
Photo courtesy of ASPCA
Dozens of animals were rescued from a squalid Ocean Hill apartment on Wednesday after their owner was arrested for alleged cruelty.
Police searched the home after they received a complaint about animal neglect, including dog breeding and a foul smell, according to the NYPD. Inside, they found 27 live animals — 22 dogs, four cats and a pigeon — and one dead puppy, according to the ASPCA, most housed in crates.
Police searched the apartment after receiving a complaint of animal neglect. Photo courtesy of ASPCA
Many of the dogs were covered in their own waste and infested with fleas. The animals were taken to nearby ASPCA facilities, where they received forensic veterinary exams.
Vets found that some of the younger dogs were underweight, while many of the older canines were suffering from untreated dental disease.
The pets will continue to receive medical and behavioral care until they are fully recovered from their ordeal, per the ASPCA.
Many of the animals were covered in their own waste and infested with fleas. Photo courtesy of ASPCA
Their owner, 47-year-old Jessica Styles, was arrested and charged with aggravated cruelty to animals and 22 counts of torturing, injuring or not feeding animals, police said.
The ASPCA said it will assist the NYPD and the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office in their criminal investigation.
“Keeping animals in horrid living conditions and failing to provide their needs is a crime, and my office is committed to holding accountable anyone in Brooklyn who’s heartless enough to do that,” said Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez. “I’m grateful for those who reported this alleged large-scale abuse and for the ASPCA for rescuing and rehabilitating these maltreated pets.”
The animals will be kept and treated at the ASPCA. Photo courtesy of ASPCA
Howard Lawrence, vice president of ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement, said the org works closely with law enforcement to protect abused animals while police and district attorneys “enforce cruelty laws and pursue justice for animal victims.”
“The magnitude of this case highlights just how crucial it is for New Yorkers to report suspected animal cruelty in their communities,” Lawrence said. “By speaking up, residents across the city’s five boroughs play a pivotal role in protecting vulnerable animals and ensuring those in distress receive the urgent care they deserve.”