The sheriff's office said 24 animals, including five deceased, were removed from the suspect's property in southern Arizona.
COACHIS COUNTY, Ariz. — An Arizona woman has been arrested and charged with 146 counts of animal cruelty and abandonment.
On Monday, Feb. 19, authorities booked Jill Houchens, 56, of Hereford, after authorities discovered numerous dead animals and animals in need of medical care at her home.
The charges consisted of 27 felonies and 119 misdemeanors.
An investigation began on February 6 after reports of animal abuse at Houchens' home.
Initial reports indicated that there were several animals on the property, extremely unsanitary conditions both inside and outside the home, and that an animal had died in the home's freezer.
During the course of the investigation, a search warrant was served at her home on February 9th.
Animal Control and its agents found several abandoned animals living in extremely poor conditions.
The area where the animals were kept was filled with feces and there was no clean place for the animals to stand.
There was little water available and no food left.
A total of 24 animals were removed from the property, including 5 dead animals, and 8 animals required medical treatment for issues including but not limited to embedded nails, infections, and severe matting. It was made.
The live animal is currently being held as evidence until the case is decided.
Houchens was reportedly known for providing animal rescue and pet-sitting services in and around Cochise County.
She is being held in the Cochise County Jail.
Investigation is ongoing.
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