CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. – A welfare check at a well-maintained home in the Citrus Hills neighborhood turned into a massive animal rescue operation late Monday evening, leading to the arrest of a 76-year-old local volunteer. Jill Swaim now faces over a dozen criminal charges after authorities discovered more than 50 cats living in what they described as hazardous conditions.
When deputies from the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the East Eureka Court residence in Hernando, they reported an immediate and overwhelming smell of ammonia coming from the property.
According to the sheriff’s office, the odor was so intense that responding officers and animal control staff suffered physical symptoms, including burning throats, coughing fits, and watering eyes.
Inside the house, investigators found floors covered in feces and urine. In one bathroom, they located the remains of a deceased cat that had been left to decompose.
The initial search on Monday led to the removal of 13 living cats. Consequently, Swaim was charged with 13 misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty and one felony count of aggravated animal cruelty.
However, the scope of the case grew the following day when Animal Control Officers returned to the scene. During that second phase, they pulled another 39 cats from the home, bringing the total number of rescued animals to 52.
Investigators revealed that Swaim was a known volunteer for several animal rescue groups in the area. One of those organizations reportedly admitted to investigators that they knew the condition of Swaim’s home had deteriorated to a point where it was no longer fit for fostering animals, yet they failed to notify Animal Control.
All of the surviving cats are now in the custody of Citrus County Animal Services, where they are undergoing veterinary exams and receiving medical treatment. The Sheriff’s Office noted that more charges could be filed against Swaim once forensic evaluations of the remaining animals are finished.
“We commend our deputies, Animal Control Officers, and Citrus County Animal Services shelter staff for their professionalism and dedication while working in extremely challenging circumstances,” the Sheriff’s Office stated following the arrest. They added that the department remains committed to protecting the welfare of both residents and animals.
Residents who suspect cases of animal neglect or abuse are encouraged to contact Citrus County Animal Control at 352-249-2790.
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