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Case Snapshot

Case ID: 9720

Classification: Hoarding

Animal: cat

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Hoarding over 50 cats
Saint Pauls, NC (US)

Incident Date: Sunday, Sep 24, 2006
County: Robeson

Disposition: Not Charged
Case Images: 1 files available

Person of Interest: Lessie Smith

The Robeson County Humane Society is trying to find homes for more than 50 cats and kittens living with a woman in St. Pauls.

The house will be condemned in early October, but the owner, Lessie Smith, says she won't leave her one-story home unless the animals are safe.

The 65-year-old Smith says she took in one cat about two years ago that became pregnant. Before long, she took in more animals and was soon living with dozens.

Code enforcement officer Felecia Locklear says Smith treats the cats like her children, feeding them before herself. Smith says she sleeps on a soiled mattress.

Officials say the house is beyond repair. Part of the roof has fallen in, doors are boarded up and water only runs in the bathroom.

Locklear says Smith will be allowed to keep three cats, but homes are needed for the others.

References

• First Coast News - Sept 24, 2006

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