California Animal Hoarder Faces Prison After Rescue of Over 300 Animals

A California woman is facing nearly 25 years in prison after authorities seized more than 300 dogs and cats from her property in what is being called one of the largest animal rescue operations in U.S. history. Christine De Anda, 57, operator of Rock ‘N’ Pawz, was charged Friday with 35 criminal counts, including 12 felony counts of animal cruelty and two felony counts of grand theft of labor.

In March, the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control discovered approximately 200 to 300 caged dogs and cats living in unsanitary conditions at De Anda’s Lake Hughes home. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced the charges Friday, detailing the horrific state in which the animals were found.

Prosecutors stated that more than 300 animals were ill, injured, and emaciated, with some suffering from starvation, dehydration, and severe untreated injuries. Many animals were allegedly kept in cages saturated with their own urine and feces, leading to open sores and infections. The ammonia levels in the housing areas were reportedly so high that rescue teams required respirators to enter.

"What we found was deeply disturbing," said Marcia Mayeda, Director of the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control. "More than 300 animals were found in severely inhumane conditions."

One dog required sedation to remove severe matting and alleviate pain, while another, found severely underweight, has since doubled its weight. Sadly, some animals could not be saved due to the severity of their illnesses and injuries, including one cat found dead from starvation and dehydration.

Authorities indicated that warnings signs had been present for years, with neighbors reporting persistent dog barking, foul odors, and accumulating trash. Despite previous visits and citations from animal control and other regulators, De Anda allegedly refused inspectors entry. Hochman stated that De Anda had "for years had refused entry."

Witness accounts eventually helped investigators secure a search warrant. Upon entering the property, officials discovered dogs, cats, a pig, a rabbit, a goose, and two goats.

Prosecutors noted that De Anda continued to accept animals despite repeated warnings about the conditions and the number of animals on the property. "For someone who calls herself an animal rescuer, there’s a fundamental responsibility to protect and care for the animals entrusted to her," Hochman said.

In addition to the felony charges, De Anda faces 21 misdemeanor counts, including animal cruelty, operating a kennel without a license, and failure to provide adequate care, food, and water. Her arraignment is pending, and prosecutors have requested bail be set at $914,500.