Hundreds Of Cats Seized By Police From SoCal Properties: Authorities

UPLAND, CA — Hundreds of cats were removed by police on Monday from two animal facilities in Southern California, law enforcement said.

The search warrant was served in the 1800 block of West 11th Street in Upland, according to local police.

“Credible information was received indicating that many of the cats were sick, malnourished, and in need of medical attention,” police said in a news release. “… Cats requiring medical attention will be transported to an animal hospital for treatment. The remaining cats will be sheltered and cared for by Friends of Upland Animal Shelter.”

Friends of Upland Animal Shelter in a Facebook post on Monday said that Upland Animal Services had taken in over 400 cats.

“This case remains under investigation,” police said in the news release. “Once the investigation is complete, the case will be presented to the District Attorney's Office for review and consideration of criminal charges.”

The Inland Valley Humane Society & S.P.C.A. in a news release Monday said properties in Upland and Claremont were tied to the case in connection with the Pomona-registered nonprofit Furget Me Not Cat Rescue

In addition to the hundreds of live cats, dead cats were found, the humane society news release said, adding that nine live dogs were also discovered. The organization shared images on social media of what appeared to be animal bones.

"This is an extremely difficult and complex case, and our immediate priority is the safety and well-being of every surviving animal,” Nikole Bresciani, president and CEO of the Inland Valley Humane Society & S.P.C.A., said in a news release. "Our teams remain committed to ensuring each animal receives the care and compassion they deserve."

To donate to support the care and treatment of the surviving cats, call 909-931-4185, or visit friendsofuplandanimalshelter.org/donate or friendsofuplandanimalshelter.org/wishlist.