12 Dead Animals Found In Upstate New York House Of Horrors

Animal Abuse On the Rise

Animal abuse is one of the most heartbreaking things you'll see on the news, and sadly, it seems to be happening throughout the Capital Region with much more frequency.

Who in their right mind could abandon a litter of puppies or cats or leave an elderly dog stranded on the side of the road?

We also seem to be experiencing increasing "hoarding situations" where unfit animal owners on properties neglect animals like horses, pigs, and sheep, as was the case in the central portion of Upstate New York last month.

State Police Make Arrest After Horrific Find

According to the New York State Police, on January 22, 2025, approximately 56 animals were removed from a property on Mudge King Road in North Norwich - about two hours west of Albany in central New York.

State Police say that when they got inside the home, the place was littered with animals in need of immediate care, while some, unfortunately, were already dead.

The NYSP said that 30 horses, a pig, seven sheep, four goats, four chickens, seven dogs, and three cats needed immediate care and were transported to various animal rescue locations throughout the area.

Sadly, over 12 dead animals, including horses, goats, pigs, and chickens, were also observed on the property.

Arrests Made

On February 14, New York State Police arrested Fiona R. Taylor, age 24, of Norwich, NY, and on February 18, the NYSP arrested Lauren M McKendry, age 47, of Norwich, NY.

Each of the women has been charged with 16 counts of the class “E” felony of the Agriculture Markets Law Aggravated Cruelty to Animals and 65 counts of the misdemeanor of the Agriculture Markets Law Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals; Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance.

How Can You Help?

If you witness animal cruelty or believe an animal is in danger, report the matter immediately to local law enforcement and/or your local Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals or other humane enforcement agencies.

Over a decade ago, the Albany County Animal Abuser Registry was created by an act of the Albany County Legislature known as Local Law K. The registry, hosted by the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, is a service to the public.

The following people seen on this list have been convicted of animal cruelty. While it's unclear exactly what they're guilty of, one thing is clear: They are not allowed to own, possess, reside, have custody of, or intentionally engage in physical contact with any animal.