WARNING: This story contains photos that some may find unsettling
Editor’s note: This story originally stated that 32 cats had to be euthanized, based on information received by the Edmonton Police Service. Animal Care and Control have since clarified that the number was actually 39. This story has been updated with the new information.
The Edmonton Police Service has issued arrest warrants for two women after officers seized more than two dozen cats from a northwest Edmonton home.
On Sept. 21, EPS officers and Animal Care and Control Peace Officers searched a property in the area of 112 Avenue and 95 Street. According to a Monday news release from EPS, peace officers had seen animals living in “deplorable conditions” at the home and in a motor home parked at the property.
Police said the levels of ammonia from cat defecation and decaying animal flesh and led the officers to call in the hazmat team from Edmonton Fire Rescue Services.
“Once inside the residence and motor home, a total of 52 cats, a majority of which were in ill health, were discovered surrounded by feces, urine and syringes throughout the two dwellings,” the police release said.
Police also found a decomposing cat inside the motor home.
All of the cats were seized, but 39 had to be euthanized due to “serious health issues.” Police originally stated that 32 cats had to be euthanized, but Animal Care and Control said the number was higher because more cats came into their care after the initial warrant was issued.
The residence has been condemned and boarded up by the City of Edmonton and officers continue to monitor the property for more cats.
The animals that didn’t have to be put down have already been transferred to barn homes and rescues, Animal Care and Control said.
WARNING: Some readers may find the photos below unsettling
Kelly Jenner, 38, and Alisha Leclercq, 32, are each facing a number of charges related to neglect and causing an animal to suffer under the Criminal Code and a number of similar charges under the Animal Protection Act.
The charges laid under the Animal Protection Act may include fines of up to $20,000 and/or a lifetime ban on owning animals.
Anyone with information about where the two might be is asked to call the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online.
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