Glen Cove, New York — A shocking animal hoarding case has emerged on Long Island after authorities discovered nearly 100 cats living inside a home described as being overwhelmed by animal waste and hazardous living conditions.
The discovery led to the arrest of a 54-year-old woman who now faces dozens of criminal charges.
Police were called to the residence late Monday night after the homeowner’s 18-year-old daughter contacted authorities with concerns about the conditions she and her younger sister were living in.
According to investigators, the teenager reported overwhelming odors, excessive filth, and unsafe conditions inside the home.
Teen Daughter’s Call Sparks Investigation
Authorities responded to the Glen Cove residence around 11:30 p.m. after receiving a call from the homeowner’s adult daughter.
According to Glen Cove Police Lieutenant John Nagle, the young woman was worried about both herself and her 11-year-old sister.
“She was concerned about herself and her younger sister with the living arrangements, and the smell, and the feces, and the filth in the house, so she reached out for help.”
Once officers arrived, they encountered what investigators described as extreme living conditions.
House Reportedly Covered in Animal Waste
Court documents state that officers found at least 65 cats inside the residence, along with two dogs in the backyard. Authorities believe the total number of cats may be significantly higher.
Police reported a powerful odor of urine and ammonia throughout the home. The daughter allegedly told officers that there was so much clutter and animal activity that it was difficult to move around the house.
She also claimed she had developed breathing problems due to the persistent smell inside the residence.
As rescuers entered the property, they wore hazmat suits and breathing masks to protect themselves from the conditions.
Rescue Teams Remove Cats One by One
Animal welfare organizations joined law enforcement in removing cats and kittens from the property.
Matt Roper of the Nassau SPCA described the scene as overwhelming.
“Every floor of the house from the basement to the top floor is covered in fecal matter and urine.”
He further explained that cats were moving freely throughout the residence, including on kitchen counters and around overflowing litter boxes.
Rescue workers spent hours bringing animals out of the home while assessing their health and safety.
Neighbors Say Situation Grew Worse Over Time
Neighbors expressed sadness and frustration after learning the extent of the conditions inside the home.
Resident James Sutherland said the problem appeared to develop gradually over several years. According to him, the homeowner initially had only a few cats before the population increased dramatically.
He believes the woman may have started breeding some of the animals before losing control of the situation.
Another neighbor, Pat Izzo, questioned how someone who cared about animals could allow them to live in such conditions.
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Woman Faces Multiple Charges
Authorities arrested Alena Horbatko and charged her with 67 counts of animal cruelty, two counts of reckless endangerment, and one count of endangering the welfare of a child.
She pleaded not guilty during her court appearance and was later released on her own recognizance.
As part of court-ordered conditions, Horbatko must surrender all animals and comply with protective orders involving her children. Her attorney stated that she intends to defend herself against the allegations in court.
Meanwhile, the two children are reportedly staying with their father.
Shelter Running Out of Space
With dozens of cats removed from the property, local animal shelters are now facing a major challenge.
Officials say many of the rescued animals are being housed at the city shelter, which is rapidly approaching capacity. Rescue groups and animal welfare organizations are working together to find additional placements and foster homes for the cats.
Horbatko is scheduled to return to court on June 15 as the case moves forward.
What are your thoughts on this case? Do you think stronger intervention measures are needed in animal hoarding situations?
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