200 Animals — Including Geese and Flying Squirrels — Were ‘Living in Squalor’ in Home. 2 Humans Were Arrested

Over 200 Animals, Including Geese and Flying Squirrels, Found in Grim Conditions Leading to Arrest of 2 Individuals

A distressing situation unfolded in a residential home on Long Island, where authorities stumbled upon more than 200 animals living in what was described as deplorable and unsanitary conditions, alongside a 95-year-old woman who was essentially confined within the cluttered space. Samantha Boyd, 57, and Neal Weschler, 61, faced charges of animal cruelty and endangerment of an elderly person following their arrest after authorities received a tip about animal hoarding at the residence.

The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office revealed that upon entering the house, they were met with a shocking sight of over 200 animals, alongside an infestation of insects, spiders, and pests. The home was reportedly filled with clutter, garbage, and household waste, making certain areas impassable. The chaos within the house was such that Boyd’s mother, aged 95, was found confined in an upstairs room due to the extensive clutter.

The animals discovered in the residence included a variety of species such as dogs, cats, geese, rabbits, crows, flying squirrels, tortoises, turkeys, parrots, and more. Among the 206 animals rescued were roosters, ducks, pigeons, hamsters, ferrets, guinea pigs, hedgehogs, and even turkeys. The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office emphasized that the living conditions were dire, with animals cramped in cages amidst waste and filth, lacking access to clean food and water sources.

Boyd had purportedly certified her suburban home as a wildlife sanctuary with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, drawing attention to the alleged neglect and cruelty inflicted on the animals. In response to the findings, authorities collaborated with eight animal rescue organizations to initiate the process of rehoming the rescued creatures to reputable sanctuaries where they could receive appropriate care and rehabilitation.

Kevin Catalina, Suffolk County Police Commissioner, condemned the neglect, stressing that wildlife should not be subjected to such living conditions in residential spaces. John Di Leonardo, an anthrozoologist and Executive Director of Humane Long Island, termed Boyd’s home a “fraudulent rescue” facility that failed to provide adequate care for the animals. His organisation pledged to offer veterinary assistance to the animals before deciding on releasing them back into the wild or relocating them to reputable sanctuaries.

Following the rescue operation, Boyd’s elderly mother was provided with the necessary care and removed from the house. Authorities confirmed that the investigation into the case was ongoing as they continue to address the situation and ensure justice is served. The incident highlights the importance of responsible animal care and the need to report instances of animal cruelty or neglect promptly to prevent such distressing scenarios.