Over 300 Animals Seized From Rock N' Pawz Rescue; Operator Charged With 35 Counts

The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office has announced criminal charges against Christine De Anda after the Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) removed more than 300 animals from her Rock N' Pawz property following complaints of "deplorable conditions." The seizure, executed under a search warrant on March 20, is the largest single animal rescue the department has conducted.

According to DACC, investigators found animals confined in cramped crates soiled with feces, many appearing malnourished, injured or ill, and none receiving documented medical care. Officers also discovered a dead cat inside the residence. In total, DACC seized more than 300 animals and transferred them to the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation for medical treatment and rehabilitation; officials say none are currently available for adoption.

Charges and Allegations

De Anda faces a combined 35 criminal counts and infractions. Prosecutors allege she ignored multiple citations and warnings from DACC and continued to accept animals despite failing to correct the dangerous conditions. The charges include:

• 12 felony counts and 3 misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty
• 2 felony counts alleging grand theft of labor
• 12 misdemeanor code-enforcement violations
• Alleged violations of Los Angeles County Code Section 10.40.010 for failing to provide food, water and necessary care, and for keeping animals in an unsanitary, injurious environment

"The conditions these animals allegedly endured are horrifying and unacceptable," said Kathryn Barger, supervisor of LA County's Fifth District, in a DACC statement. "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."

Response and Context

The seized animals were transported to the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation, where veterinary staff and caregivers are providing treatment and rehabilitation. DACC serves unincorporated LA County and 43 surrounding cities, responding 24/7 to reports of sick, injured, abandoned or otherwise suffering animals, conducting cruelty investigations, inspecting shelters and facilities for licensing compliance, and performing rescues during emergencies and natural disasters.

Officials pointed to national animal-welfare concerns to underscore the scope of cruelty and hoarding issues. Citing resources such as the ASPCA's Shelter Animals Count, they said large numbers of animals nationwide are affected each year by neglect, abuse and hoarding—problems that local agencies continually work to address.

Investigators continue working the case, and prosecutors will determine how the charges proceed through the courts. For updates on the animals' medical status, adoption availability or how to support the recovery effort, check updates from the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation and DACC.