OHIO — A woman in East Palestine is facing charges after authorities seized 21 animals from her home during an investigation into unsafe living conditions.
According to the Columbiana County Humane Society, 38-year-old Jennifer Albert has been charged with four misdemeanor counts of prohibitions concerning companion animals following a multi-week investigation.
The investigation began March 31 after reports from emergency medical workers. Chief Humane Officer Fabian Pike said he met Albert at her home on West Main Street on April 3, where he immediately noticed a strong odor coming from the residence.
Albert initially told investigators she had five cats, one dog and a rabbit. However, after entering the home with her permission, Pike reported finding floors covered in feces and urine, with waste also present on furniture, clothing and electronics.
In a court document, Pike stated, “Every single step I took was met with feces and urine soaked into the floor.”
Authorities said they initially removed 12 cats, two rabbits and one dog. Six additional cats were later discovered upstairs, bringing the total number of animals seized to 21.
Court documents allege the animals were suffering from issues including ear mites, lack of grooming and extremely unsanitary conditions.
A judge found probable cause to move forward with the case Wednesday. Albert is scheduled to be arraigned May 18 at 8:30 a.m. in Columbiana County Municipal Court.
The investigation remains ongoing.
