Daijiworld Media Network – New York

New York, Oct 7: In a shocking case of animal cruelty and neglect, a certified wildlife rehabilitator from Northport, New York, has been arrested after authorities found over 200 animals and a 95-year-old woman living in deplorable conditions inside her home.

The accused, Samantha Boyd (57), and her partner Neal Weschler (61), were arrested following a raid by the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Biological, Environmental and Animal Safety Team (BEAST). The operation was launched after a complaint of suspected animal hoarding at Boyd’s residence on Fort Salonga Road.

Officials were horrified to find 206 wild and domestic animals—including ducks, squirrels, pigeons, chipmunks, ferrets, rabbits, cats, dogs, parrots, hedgehogs, and tortoises—living in cramped cages filled with piles of waste and filth. Food and water sources were found to be severely contaminated.

Authorities also discovered the 95-year-old woman trapped on the second floor amid piles of garbage, debris, and insect infestation. The entire house was reportedly infested with spiders and other pests, with several rooms blocked by wall-to-wall clutter.

District Attorney Raymond Tierney described the scene as “deeply distressing,” vowing strict action against animal cruelty. “Neglect and abuse of any living being will not be tolerated,” he said.

The rescued animals have been taken into care by the BEAST unit and nonprofit organizations. Boyd faces charges of endangering the welfare of a vulnerable elderly person and neglecting impounded animals. She has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Authorities said licensed wildlife rehabilitators are expected to care for injured or sick wild animals—responsibilities Boyd allegedly failed to uphold.