Three Storm Lake residents have been arrested on animal neglect charges due to several cats that were living in dire conditions.
Back on August 31st, the Storm Lake Police Department assisted the Iowa Department of Corrections with a probation check at 1014 North Michigan Street in Storm Lake. While at the residence, officers observed a total of 13 cats inside and outside the house. Evidence showed residents were supplying both food and water to the animals. The cats were rescued on the scene and transported to Lake Animal Hospital for further evaluation. Two of the cats were suffering from serious illnesses to their eyes.
Criminal charges were filed today (Wed) against 63-year-old Juana Munoz, 26-year-old Mayra Lopez Munoz, and 32-year-old Veronica Lopez Munoz. All three were charged with two counts of 2nd Offense Animal Neglect Resulting in Serious Injury, a Class D Felony. They were transported to the Buena Vista County Jail, where they were booked and held on a five-thousand dollar bond.
Those three individuals were charged in June of last year after authorities removed 50 cats and two dogs from the same residence. Many of the animals were found to be in poor condition, and some of them had to be euthanized due to illness.
The Storm Lake Police Department was assisted in the latest investigation by the Iowa Department of Corrections, Buena Vista County Attorney’s Office, and Lake Animal Hospital.
