PENNSYLVANIA — Police in Johnstown have issued an arrest warrant for a local woman after officers reported finding hazardous and unsanitary living conditions inside a home on Central Avenue in the city’s Moxham neighborhood.
Authorities say 42-year-old Lisa Jenelle McLean is facing criminal charges following an investigation into conditions inside the residence that allegedly endangered two teenagers and a family dog.
According to a criminal complaint filed in Cambria County, officers responded to the home shortly after 3 p.m. to assist Cambria County Children and Youth Services during an effort to remove two teenagers from the residence due to concerns about the home’s condition.
When officers entered the house, they reported immediately noticing a strong odor of animal urine and observing feces throughout the residence. Investigators said several cat litter boxes were overflowing, creating a smell so strong that it was difficult to breathe inside the home.
Police also found that the refrigerator had been without power for an extended period of time, leaving food inside unsafe to consume. Officers reported the residence had no running water or electricity.
Bedrooms upstairs, which were used by the two girls ages 15 and 19, were also described as being in extremely unsanitary condition, with the odor of urine present throughout the upper floor.
Investigators further reported that a dog found inside the residence appeared severely underweight, with its bones visibly protruding through its skin.
Authorities allege that the lack of utilities, combined with the unsanitary conditions and poor air quality, created an environment that posed significant health risks to those living inside the home.
McLean is charged with endangering the welfare of children, a third-degree felony, and cruelty to animals, a second-degree misdemeanor. Police said a warrant has been issued for her arrest.
