POLK COUNTY, Fla. — Over 300 animals were seized from a Polk County property on claims of animal abuse and hoarding Thursday.
The Polk County Sheriff's Office said a deputy arrived at the mobile home of Lisa Lacharite, 48, on Fazzini Drive near Frostproof around 9:50 a.m. to perform a well-being check on Lacharite's 75-year-old mother, who lived with her.
When the deputy entered the front porch, he saw multiple wire cages holding around 75 chickens, a peacock and ducks, some of which looked malnourished and sick. He also noted an overwhelming odor when he went inside, finding approximately 50 cats.
Lacharite allegedly said she "rescues cats and cares for numerous chickens and ducks." When the deputy met with Lacharite's mother, he said she had glassy eyes and wasn't able to move easily despite telling him she was okay.
Officials seized 142 cats, three dogs and 164 fowl, including ducks, chickens, geese and a peacock. Sheriff Grady Judd said the animals were living inside the home with Lacharite and her mother.
Lacharite was arrested and charged with five counts of felony animal cruelty, 304 counts of animal neglect and one count of elder neglect. She was booked into the Polk County Jail.
Those interested in adopting the animals can stop by Polk County Animal Control on Friday or Saturday at 7115 De Castro Road in Winter Haven.
