Canandaigua, New York — A disturbing animal cruelty investigation in western New York has led to criminal charges against two women after authorities discovered four dead cats stored in a freezer and rescued 17 severely neglected animals from what officials described as an unsanitary and uninhabitable home in Canandaigua.
The case came to light earlier this month after the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office received a complaint raising concerns about the conditions inside a residence where animals were being fostered. According to investigators, the complaint specifically cited poor sanitation and a lack of medical care for animals housed at the property.
Complaint triggers search warrant
The complaint was reportedly filed by an individual who had recently picked up two dogs that had been fostered at the home, prompting concerns about the wellbeing of other animals still inside.
Based on that information, deputies obtained and executed a search warrant at the Canandaigua residence on Dec. 2, officials said.
When officers entered the home, they encountered what the Ontario County Humane Society later described as severe hoarding conditions, with animals living among clutter and filth.
Dozens of animals found in distress
Inside the residence, authorities found 14 dogs in varying states of confinement. Some were kept inside metal cages, while others were roaming freely throughout the home.
In addition to the dogs, officers also discovered three live cats in need of care. All surviving animals were immediately removed from the property and placed into protective custody.
However, investigators made a far more troubling discovery during the search.
“Tragically, four deceased cats were discovered inside a kitchen freezer,” the Humane Society said in a statement.
Dead cats sent for necropsy
The Humane Society confirmed that the four dead cats will be transported to the Cornell Animal Diagnostic Center, where necropsies will be performed to determine their cause of death.
Authorities have not yet disclosed how long the cats had been deceased or why they were stored in the freezer.
The findings have become a central part of the ongoing investigation.
Women charged with animal cruelty
Following the search, Sheila LaFleur, 63, and Robin Burr, 61, who both reside at the Canandaigua address, were arrested and charged.
According to officials, each woman faces one misdemeanor count of animal cruelty. They were later released on bond and are expected to appear in court at a later date.
Court appearances are pending, and the case remains under review by local authorities.
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Animals suffering from neglect
All 17 rescued animals — including 14 dogs and three cats — were transported to the Ontario County Humane Society, where they were immediately evaluated by veterinary professionals.
Initial medical assessments revealed widespread neglect.
“The dogs and cats were flea ridden, suffering from fur loss, dental issues, and ear infections,” the Humane Society said.
Officials added that the animals are now receiving ongoing medical treatment, and their conditions are being closely monitored as they begin the recovery process.
Home deemed uninhabitable
Beyond the condition of the animals, officials also raised serious concerns about the state of the residence itself.
A Town of Canandaigua Code Enforcement Officer inspected the property and declared it uninhabitable, citing severe hoarding conditions and unsafe living environments.
The designation underscores the extent of the neglect uncovered during the investigation.
Shelter stresses importance of reporting concerns
The Humane Society emphasized that the case highlights the importance of reporting suspected animal neglect, particularly in situations involving foster environments.
Animal welfare advocates say overcrowding, hoarding, and untreated medical issues can escalate quickly, putting both animals and people at risk.
Authorities credited the individual who reported the conditions with helping prevent further suffering.
Investigation ongoing
LaFleur and Burr are scheduled to face their charges in court, according to reports. Additional charges could be considered depending on the results of the necropsies and ongoing investigation.
The Ontario County Sheriff’s Office has not yet released further details, and officials say the case remains active.
For now, the focus remains on stabilizing the rescued animals and determining accountability for the conditions found inside the home.
What are your thoughts on this case and how authorities should handle suspected animal hoarding situations? Share your views in the comments below.
