Florida Woman Arrested for Burying Kittens, Claiming They Were 'Demonic'

A Florida woman has been arrested on felony animal cruelty charges after allegedly burying a litter of kittens alive because she believed they were "demonic" and "very ugly." Alba Chavez, 37, was taken into custody by the Martin County Sheriff's Office.

Deputies responded to a report at Chavez's Hobe Sound residence after children at the home alerted authorities that they had been hiding the cats from her due to her alleged cruelty. The children became concerned when they discovered the kittens were missing.

Upon arrival, deputies heard meows emanating from beneath the ground. They proceeded to uncover two plastic shopping bags containing live kittens. A third kitten was unaccounted for, and two others were found deceased.

During questioning, Chavez reportedly confessed to burying the animals, stating she did not want cats with brown or black fur in her home. "She said they were demonic. She said they were ugly. She said she didn’t want those cats in her house," Sheriff John Budensiek told reporters, adding that he was unsure if the actions stemmed from a mental health issue or personal dislike of the animals. Chavez allegedly instructed officers, "If you want the cats, you will need gloves, a red bag and a shovel."

The rescued kittens, estimated to be about three weeks old, were taken to a veterinary hospital. They have since been placed in a foster home for recovery.

"They were a little bit sluggish, a little slower, hadn’t quite completely figured out the whole walking thing and the eating thing, but now its a complete turnaround," the foster caregiver told WPBF. "These two are fighters for sure, and they are meant to be here, they have a purpose."

The kittens are expected to be available for adoption after approximately two more months of care.

Chavez remains in custody. She has been charged with felony counts of aggravated animal cruelty.