Scranton police say 31 cats were rescued and 78 found dead in at a Meadow Avenue home this week.
On Monday, Griffin Pond Animal Shelter posted on Facebook that they were working with other organizations to rescue the cats from a hoarding house, which they said was the worst they have ever seen.
They showed rows of cat carriers containing the felines and asked for help in the form of supplies and volunteer hours.
Yaskoweak (SUBMITTED)
On Tuesday, the Scranton police department announced they arrested Mark Yaskoweak, 47, on 10 felony counts of aggravated cruelty to animals.
In a news release, the department said officers went to 903 Meadow Avenue to serve a warrant on Yaskoweak on Monday. When they arrived, they found a notice on the front door indicating the structure had been condemned.
They noted that the structure was “unsecure and in disrepair.” When they stepped in to take Yaskoweak into custody, they noted that the interior was filled with animal waste, consistent with hoarding conditions.
Scranton police worked with Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, Street Cats and Dogs of Nay Aug Zoo and Animal Care Associates to rescue the cats.
“The investigation is ongoing and being conducted in conjunction with the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office,” an updated release said. “The Scranton Police Department is grateful for our animal control officers and these volunteer organizations for their dedication and loyalty to their cause.”
Yaskoweak remains at Lackawanna County Prison in lieu of $20,000. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 13.