Crime & Safety

Updated With Photos: Animal Hoarding Investigation Underway in Severna Park

Over 60 cats were rescued on Wednesday from an operation located off of Benfield Road.

Sixty-seven cats were seized on Wednesday morning from Cool Cats Rescue Center located at 546 Benfield Rd. in Severna Park, according to Anne Arundel County Police.

The cats were found to be in various medical conditions, including two  deceased cats that were recovered.

The Anne Arundel County Animal Control worked in coordination with the Anne Arundel County Police Department’s Eastern District, the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and contributions from PetSmart Charities supported the rescue.

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According to a police press release, Animal Control received numerous complaints concerning deplorable conditions along with concerns for the health of the animals at the Cool Cats Rescue Center.

The seized animals were taken to the Animal Control Facility in Millersville where they will be assessed to determine how Animal Control will proceed with their care.

Find out what's happening in Severna Parkwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Potential charges have not been determined as of Thursday,   according to the press release.

 “The Humane Society of the United States’ Animal Rescue Team is proud to work with Anne Arundel County Animal Control to help rescue these cats,” said Adam Parascandola, director of Animal Cruelty Investigations for the HSUS in a press release.

“We are thankful to the local law enforcement for taking action for these neglected animals and enforcing Maryland’s animal cruelty laws.”

If other animal agencies or rescue groups are interested in helping, they can contact Animal Control at 410-222-8900.

In light of this hoarding case, Animal Control is now seeking adoptions for numerous cats currently housed at their facility in Millersville.

Anyone interested in adopting these seized cats or any other cats at Animal Control is asked to visit the facility in Millersville or monitor the Animal Control Facebook page to find out if/when animals will be adopted out through Animal Control.


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