Representative Image (Photo: Reuters)
Authorities executed search warrants at properties linked to the Pomona-registered nonprofit in Upland and nearby Claremont, including a site in the 1800 block of West 11th Street in Upland. Videos supplied by a former employee during earlier litigation showed injured cats, crowded conditions and cages inside a bathroom, CBS Los Angeles reported.
Upland police said they had received information indicating that many of the cats were sick, malnourished and in need of medical attention. Cats requiring treatment were sent for veterinary care, while others were placed with shelters. Police also searched two units operated by rescue founder Ewa Konca and later interviewed her at her home in Claremont. Two current employees defended Konca’s work, saying she had travelled long distances to take in cats facing euthanasia.
Before the searches, neighbouring businesses had complained about strong odours at the Upland facility.
More than 500 dead and living cats were found during an investigation into properties linked to Furget Me Not Purebred Cat Rescue, a Southern California nonprofit. Upland Animal Services separately took in more than 400 cats during the operation, while nine live dogs were also found at properties connected to the case. Some of the dead cats were discovered inside a freezer, while others were buried on the property, as reported by KTLA.
Police said the case will be sent to the district attorney’s office once their work is complete, after which prosecutors will decide whether to file criminal charges. The investigation remains open. Catch the latest World News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.