PHOENIX — Authorities say two cats were found dead and a dozen other animals were rescued Monday from a Litchfield Park home where they were living in what officials described as “deplorable conditions.”
Deputies with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) responded to a report of suspected animal cruelty at a home near Maryland Avenue and 136th Drive.
Upon entering the residence, deputies discovered 11 dogs and one cat that had been left abandoned inside the home, which reportedly lacked air conditioning and showed signs of severe neglect. Additionally, two cats were found deadon the property.
Animals now in safe care, investigation ongoing
All 12 surviving animals were removed from the home and are now in safe hands, receiving proper medical attention, according to the sheriff’s office.
Officials did not immediately disclose whether any arrests had been made or if charges were pending. The case remains under investigation, and no further information was released as of Tuesday morning.
The incident comes just weeks after Arizona lawmakers, alongside animal welfare groups and Governor Katie Hobbs, celebrated the passage of new anti-cruelty legislation aimed at strengthening protections for animals across the state.
Animal welfare advocates continue to stress the importance of community vigilance and reporting suspected neglect or abuse. Residents can report animal cruelty to the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office or their local animal control agency.
