A U.S. Postal Service mail carrier in Stuart, Florida, has been arrested after authorities found over 100 animals living in a feces-filled home, officials reported.
Gail Giustino, 77, was taken into custody on July 20 after a months-long investigation into reports that she was collecting cats along her postal route. Detectives, firefighters, and animal control officers, equipped with hazmat suits, entered Giustino's home following the execution of a search warrant.
Upon entering the residence, they encountered an overwhelming stench, sweltering temperatures, and a lack of ventilation. Inside, they discovered more than 100 animals, including approximately 70 cats and the remainder dogs, housed in cages in deplorable conditions. Some areas of the home were reportedly buried under a foot of waste.
Sheriff John Budensiek of the Martin County Sheriff’s Office described it as the "worst case of animal hoarding" he had seen in the county. Rescuers noted that many of the animals were in poor condition, with some cats appearing catatonic and traumatized.
Giustino, who has been employed by the U.S. Postal Service since 1997, faces charges of animal cruelty and confinement of animals without sufficient exercise. Authorities stated that while Giustino likely believed she was doing the right thing, her actions were misguided.
Records indicate that Giustino's home had accumulated around 65 citations for animal conditions since 2014. She was released on $50,000 bond, and the sheriff expressed hope that the legal process would lead to her receiving mental health treatment.
Following the rescue operation, county officials worked to rehome the animals. The Humane Society of Treasure Coast received 108 pets from the home. In the days after the arrest, several owners were joyfully reunited with pets that had been missing, with some owners reporting emotional reunions.