Glen Cove, New York — A Long Island woman is facing dozens of criminal charges after authorities discovered more than 130 cats and dogs living inside a home described by police as filthy, overcrowded, and hazardous to both humans and animals.
The disturbing case came to light after the woman’s teenage daughter contacted emergency services, expressing concern about the living conditions inside the family’s residence on St. Andrews Lane in Glen Cove.
Police said the call led officers to uncover what they described as a shocking animal hoarding situation involving toxic air conditions, overwhelming clutter, and a large number of neglected animals.
Daughter’s Call Led Police to the Home
According to authorities, the investigation began when the woman’s 18-year-old daughter called 911 out of concern for her younger sister and the family’s living environment.
A spokesperson for the Glen Cove Police Department said the teenager reported that conditions inside the home were “deplorable” and in complete disarray.
Charging documents indicate the daughter told investigators there was so much clutter throughout the residence that moving around the house had become extremely difficult.
She also reportedly told police that she had developed breathing problems because of the conditions inside the home.
The residence was occupied by 54-year-old Alena Horbatko and her two daughters, ages 12 and 18.
Officers Encounter Overwhelming Conditions Inside
When officers entered the property, they reportedly had to wear protective equipment due to the condition of the air inside the house.
Authorities said the home was saturated with the odor of animal waste and contained toxic ammonia levels that can pose serious health risks, including respiratory complications.
Police described the scene as overwhelming, saying cats were visible throughout nearly every part of the residence.
In addition to the odor and clutter, investigators also reported a significant flea infestation inside the home.
The conditions raised concerns not only about animal welfare but also about the safety and health of the children living there.
More Than 130 Animals Rescued
As of Tuesday, authorities said they had removed 135 cats and two dogs from the property.
Animal welfare groups, local shelters, and SPCA volunteers have been working together to relocate and care for the rescued animals.
Officials described the operation as a major undertaking that has placed considerable strain on local resources due to the large number of animals requiring shelter and medical attention.
Authorities were also racing to remove the remaining animals before extreme temperatures created additional risks.
Among the rescued animals, at least 43 cats were reported to be critically ill and receiving veterinary treatment.
Woman Faces Dozens of Criminal Charges
Horbatko was arrested Monday and later appeared in Glen Cove City Court.
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She pleaded not guilty to the charges filed against her.
According to authorities, she faces 67 counts of torturing or injuring an animal, along with two counts of second-degree reckless endangerment and one count of acting in a manner injurious to a child under the age of 17.
The case remains under investigation as animal welfare organizations continue caring for the rescued pets and assessing their medical needs.
Officials have not yet indicated whether additional charges could be filed as the condition of the animals and the property continues to be evaluated.
The shocking discovery has drawn attention to the challenges associated with animal hoarding cases, which often create dangerous living environments for both pets and the people residing in the home.
What are your thoughts on this case?
Should there be stronger intervention measures in suspected animal hoarding situations before conditions reach this level? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
