(EVANSVILLE) - Police and animal control rescued dozens of animals from an Evansville home Tuesday night, leading to the arrest of two residents on multiple neglect charges.
Authorities say 15 dogs, 29 cats, four chickens and five ducks were found inside and around a home in the 2300 block of Franklin Street. Officers reported the animals had no access to food or water and were living in unsanitary conditions.
Investigators say many of the dogs were confined to kennels filled with urine and feces. Officers also discovered a basement room containing dozens of cats, where the odor was so strong that breathing masks were needed to enter. Several cats showed signs of respiratory distress.
Joshua and Alee Nelson were arrested and taken to the Vanderburgh County Jail. Both face 54 counts of animal neglect and are being held on $5,400 bond.
Animal control has removed all of the animals from the home, and the investigation remains ongoing.