A Charleroi man is facing animal cruelty charges after over 20 cats were found dead inside a home.
West Newton Police Officers say Jonathan Hodgetts was supposed to be caring for 21 cats, but were instead found dead inside the home on North 2nd Street in West Newton.
The owner of the home called police after finding all of her cats had died.
“She told investigators that Hodgetts was supposed to be caring for the cats for the past year while she was taking care of a sick cat,” the Westmoreland D.A. said in a release.
The woman also said she sent food and other supplies for the cats and that Hodgetts sent her photos, assuring her the cats were okay. The woman last saw the cats alive in July.
“The homeowner told police that Hodgetts was rescuing the cats and getting them fixed and the two had plans to turn a detached garage into a cat sanctuary,” the DA added.
A veterinarian said the cats died as a result of starvation.
West Newton Police have charged Hodgetts with aggravated cruelty to animals, cruelty to animals and neglect.
