SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — A Scranton man is facing multiple felony charges after police say they discovered extreme animal neglect and unsanitary conditions inside a condemned home.
According to Scranton Police, officers went to a residence on the 900 block of Meadow Avenue Monday to serve an arrest warrant. When they arrived, they found the property had already been condemned and appeared unsafe and in disrepair.
Police made contact with 47-year-old Mark Aaron Yaskoweak inside the home and took him into custody without incident.
While at the scene, officers observed what they described as severe unsanitary conditions, including large amounts of animal waste. Investigators say Yaskoweak admitted to keeping more than 20 cats inside the residence and told officers that multiple deceased animals were also inside.
Code enforcement officials were called to assist, and authorities entered the home wearing protective gear. Inside, officers reported seeing multiple containers believed to hold deceased animals.
Due to concerns about hazardous conditions and the structural stability of the home, officials left before completing a full search. A search warrant was later obtained.
Yaskoweak is now charged with 10 felony counts of aggravated cruelty to animals and 10 misdemeanor counts of animal neglect. He was arraigned and is being held in the Lackawanna County Prison, awaiting a preliminary hearing in April.
Police say the investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible.