BROWARD COUNTY, FL – A Broward County, Florida woman was sentenced to three years in prison after 63 cats were discovered living in deplorable conditions in her abandoned home.

The shocking revelation came to light in May of 2021 when neighbors reported an unbearable smell emanating from the residence. An investigation uncovered a horrific scene, as the cats were found in a “toxic and hazardous living environment,” without necessary food and water and with exposure to feces and urine in a home lacking proper ventilation.

During the court proceedings, a former animal rescue worker’s troubled upbringing was brought to light, marked by parental abuse and her withdrawal from school at the age of 15. The judge expressed sympathy for the woman’s troubled history but handed down a three-year prison sentence coupled with 10 years of mental health probation. The sentence also included a list of special conditions, such as no contact with the animal rescue group Saving Sage, a prohibition on possessing any animals for the duration of her probation, and a requirement for 500 hours of community service.

The woman had previously worked with several animal rescue organizations, including Saving Sage, from which she was terminated after being arrested for alleged theft. In addition to the legal repercussions, the judge ordered restitution to Saving Sage, the amount of which is yet to be determined.