California Rescue Operator Charged with 35 Felonies for Alleged Animal Cruelty

A California woman operating an animal rescue is facing 35 felony and misdemeanor charges for allegedly keeping approximately 300 animals in inhumane and unsanitary conditions. Christine De Anda, 57, operator of Rock ‘N’ Pawz rescue in Lake Hughes, has been charged with 12 felony counts of animal cruelty, two felony counts of grand theft of labor, and 21 misdemeanor charges including failure to provide care and operating an unlicensed kennel.

Prosecutors requested bail be set at $914,500 ahead of her arraignment. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman stated that De Anda allegedly allowed animals to suffer from starvation, dehydration, untreated injuries, and painful burns in filthy conditions, despite repeated citations and warnings.

The charges follow a March 20, 2026, search warrant executed by Los Angeles County Animal Care and Control (DACC). Investigators removed over 300 animals, primarily dogs, but also cats, a pig, a rabbit, a goose, and two goats. DACC Director Marcia Mayeda described the operation as the largest companion animal search warrant and rescue effort in the department's history.

Animals were found living in and saturated with their own excrement, suffering from serious untreated illnesses and injuries, emaciated, and confined to small crates without adequate space. At least one cat was discovered deceased from starvation and dehydration at the investigation's outset.

De Anda is also accused of violating multiple county codes, including operating an animal kennel without required land-use approval, maintaining unsanitary conditions, and having structures with unpermitted construction, plumbing, electrical, and grading work. DACC reported that despite efforts, not all animals could be saved due to the severity of their conditions. The rescue operation received support from the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles, Pasadena Humane, and Kern County Animal Services.