The Los Angeles County District Attorney has charged Christine De Anda after the DACC seized more than 300 animals from her Rock N' Pawz rescue following reports of 'deplorable' conditions. A March 20 search allegedly found animals in cramped, feces-soiled crates, many malnourished or injured, and a dead cat. De Anda faces 35 criminal counts, including multiple felony animal cruelty charges and alleged county code violations. The animals are now receiving care at the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation and are not available for adoption.
More Than 300 Animals Seized From Rock N' Pawz — Rescue Operator Charged After Alleged 'Deplorable' Conditions
Image Credit: CBS/LADA
The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office has filed criminal charges against Christine De Anda after authorities removed more than 300 animals from her Rock N' Pawz rescue following reports of neglect and unsafe living conditions.
What Officers Found
The Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) says it executed a search warrant at De Anda's property on March 20 and discovered animals confined in cramped, feces-soiled crates, with many appearing malnourished, injured, or ill and not receiving necessary medical care. Investigators also report finding a deceased cat inside the home. The DACC describes the seizure as the largest single rescue in the department's history.
Charges and Allegations
De Anda faces 35 criminal counts, including 12 felony counts and three misdemeanors alleging animal cruelty, two felony counts alleging grand theft of labor, and twelve misdemeanors for code enforcement violations. Prosecutors also allege violations of Los Angeles County Code Section 10.40.010 for failing to provide adequate food, water and care and for maintaining an unsanitary and injurious environment for animals.
'The conditions these animals allegedly endured are horrifying and unacceptable,' Kathryn Barger, supervisor for LA County's Fifth District, said in the DACC press release. 'Animal cruelty has no place in our communities. Anyone entrusted with the care of animals has a responsibility to protect their health and well-being. When that trust is violated, there must be accountability.'
Care and Next Steps
More than 300 animals were transported to the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation, where they are receiving veterinary care and rehabilitation. Officials say none of the animals are currently available for adoption while investigations and medical assessments continue.
Context and Outreach
The article cites data attributed to the ASPCA's Shelter Animals Count that estimates millions of animals are affected by abuse or neglect each year; the DACC says it works around the clock to respond to reports, inspect facilities, and rescue animals across Los Angeles County and 43 surrounding cities. Residents can find information about adoption, rehoming, and volunteering on the DACC website.
Help us improve.
