Daijiworld Media Network – California
California, Jul 4: In a deeply disturbing case of animal cruelty, Jeannie Maxon (69) of Long Beach, California, has been arrested and charged with 93 counts of animal cruelty after more than 100 cats were discovered confined inside a U-Haul van, many of them in critical condition and dozens already dead.
According to the Merced County Sheriff’s Office, the shocking discovery was made on Sunday, July 1, after deputies were alerted to a Taco Bell parking lot in Santa Nella, where a van was reportedly emanating strong odours and signs of animal distress.
Upon arrival, officers were confronted with a harrowing scene—cats pressed against windows, visibly malnourished, dehydrated, and in extreme distress. Animal control was quickly summoned, and a total of 106 live cats were found crammed inside the van, which lacked ventilation, food, or water. An additional 28 cats were found dead, many in boxes or hidden beneath debris.
The cats ranged in age from just one week old to eight years, officials said. Photographs released by authorities revealed cramped and unsanitary conditions, with many cats confined in cardboard boxes and makeshift carriers.
Authorities suspect the van had been parked for days, enduring California’s punishing summer heat. The sheriff’s department issued a public advisory warning against leaving animals inside vehicles:
“On a warm day, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise to dangerous levels within minutes, even if the windows are open. Always ensure pets are kept in a cool environment with shade, fresh water, and proper ventilation.”
Maxon was immediately booked into the Merced County Jail, though it remains unclear whether she has secured legal representation or if she is still in custody as of now. The motive behind her actions is still under investigation, but officials are exploring whether this may be tied to hoarding behaviour.
The surviving cats have been transferred to the Merced County Animal Shelter, where veterinary teams are working to stabilise and treat them. Officials confirmed that the felines will be made available for adoption once they are medically cleared.
The Merced County Sheriff’s Office has promised continued updates as the case develops, especially regarding the timeline for adoption and any new findings in the ongoing investigation.
Animal welfare groups across the state have expressed outrage over the incident, calling for stricter monitoring and mental health support for individuals exhibiting hoarding tendencies, especially when animal welfare is at risk.