This alert is no longer active, but here for reference. Animals still need your help.

A two-year investigation has finally led to multiple felony charges against two alleged rescuers in Indiana County, Pennsylvania, who caused horrifying suffering to many dozens of cats in their care. Demand accountability in the form of jail times and fines.

The president of Cat Aid Network Kimberly Rose and board member Pamela Curry were charged with aggravated cruelty, neglect, and animal torture after dozens of cats were found living in extreme filth and deprivation in 2022. Investigators found 13 dead cats and reported an overwhelming stench of ammonia and the widespread presence of urine, feces, fleas, and garbage throughout the mobile home owned by Rose. Nearby rescues took in many of the cats, with Ninth Life taking 211, including many who had been in foster homes and were unaware of the situation at the property, and Frankie's Friends taking in more than 80.

Veterinarian Dr. Danielle Vought found the cats suffered from respiratory diseases so prolonged over time that their sinus canals were permanently damaged. In addition, they had ulcerated mouths, gingivitis, diarrhea, flea infestations, and various untreated bacterial infections. The severe neglect caused the cats unimaginable suffering over long periods of time.

The case has revealed that this was not merely a matter of limited resources but of dangerously negligent behavior. In text messages obtained from Rose to the vet, she admitted, "I am very sorry, and I should have reached out earlier for help. I'm sorry, I never wanted this to happen, I just wanted to help and I got in over my head. Everyone stopped coming to help, and I just failed."

Volunteers counter that she repeatedly declined help.

Rose and Curry are charged with:

• 13 counts each of third-degree felony aggravated cruelty to animals—torture
• 13 counts of third-degree felony aggravated cruelty causing Serious Bodily Injury (SBI) or death
• 87 counts of third-degree misdemeanor neglect of animals, lacking shelter or protection
• 46 counts of third-degree misdemeanor neglect of animals for failure to provide veterinary care.

Rose waived her preliminary hearing, and her formal arraignment is set for November 13, 2024, while Curry had a preliminary hearing on October 23. Both women currently remain free on bail.

While Kimberly Rose has expressed remorse in a written statement, the severity of neglect indicates a failure in judgment that goes beyond mere regret. Hoarding under the pretense of rescue is a severe violation of the trust of the cat victims themselves, as well as the trust and responsibility needed in the animal welfare community, one that demands maximum sentencing, mental health evaluations, and a lifetime ban on the care or guardianship of animals.

Why It Matters:

Hoarding and neglect cases continue to surface across the U.S., often resulting in the suffering of multitudes of animals trapped in appalling conditions – often as a result of mental illness. Without stringent laws and serious prosecutions, such tragedies will persist. In Defense of Animals is calling for a strong legal response to ensure that those who abuse and neglect animals face consequences that reflect the suffering they inflict.

Letter to Decision Maker(s) for reference:

Subject: Prevent future cases of animal hoarding: Maximum sentencing for irresponsible and negligent offenders

I am writing on behalf of In Defense of Animals and countless supporters to urge the maximum prosecution for Cat Aid president Kimberly Rose and board member Pamela Curry, who are both facing multiple felony charges for causing the suffering of dozens of cats in their care, including the deaths of at least 13.

Despite Rose’s expressions of regret, her well-meaning intentions do not change the reality of the suffering endured by these innocent animals. A severe lapse in judgment led to unnecessary deaths, with countless others left to endure untreated diseases, malnutrition, and filth.

Animal hoarding, which is often driven by mental health issues, demands both accountability and professional intervention. I respectfully request that your office seek the maximum sentencing allowed by law and require that both Rose and Curry undergo comprehensive mental health evaluations. Additionally, it is imperative to include a permanent ban on the guardianship of any animals, to prevent future harm.

This case serves as a cautionary example for individuals involved in animal rescue. By treating this case with the utmost seriousness, you send a message that animal hoarding under the guise of rescue will be met with strict consequences. This action will not only deliver justice to the suffering animals of Cat Aid Network but also help to safeguard vulnerable animals across our communities.

Thank you for your attention to this matter and your dedication to justice.

Sincerely,

Signed

This alert is no longer active, but here for reference. Animals still need your help.