Buffalo man faces 22 charges after Animal Control removes 40 animals from deplorable conditions
BUFFALO, NY – Forty animals were removed from a Buffalo home where police say dogs and cats were living without clean food or drinking water amid animal waste and feces-covered surfaces, leading to 22 animal cruelty-related charges against a 52-year-old man.
Buffalo Police announced the arrest Friday following an investigation at a residence in the 400 block of West Ferry Street.
Shortly before 3 p.m. Wednesday, D District officers responded to the property to assist City of Buffalo Animal Control and the Animal Shelter.
Inside, officials found 22 dogs and 18 cats.
Police described the animals’ living conditions as deplorable.
Beds and surfaces covered in feces
Investigators said there was no clean food or drinking water available for the animals because of the amount of animal excrement throughout the residence.
Most surfaces were covered in feces, including beds, according to police.
The home also had no working toilet.
All 40 animals were removed and taken to the City of Buffalo Animal Shelter, where police said they will receive medical evaluations.
Buffalo man faces 22 charges
Police identified the man charged as Paule Montanez, 52, of Buffalo.
Montanez faces 22 misdemeanor counts under New York Agriculture and Markets Law Section 356 for failure to provide proper food and drink to an impounded animal.
Police said the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges could be filed.
Investigation expands after discovery involving child
Investigators also determined that a minor had previously stayed at the residence.
Buffalo Police said the Child Advocacy Unit immediately opened an investigation and Child Protective Services was notified.
Authorities did not release additional information about the child or indicate when the minor had stayed at the property.
Buffalo Police credited Animal Control and the Animal Shelter for their work removing the animals and addressing the conditions inside the residence.
The charges against Montanez are accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Key Points
- Buffalo authorities removed 22 dogs and 18 cats from a home in the 400 block of West Ferry Street.
- Police said the animals lacked clean food and drinking water, while most surfaces inside the residence, including beds, were covered in feces.
- Paule Montanez, 52, faces 22 misdemeanor charges, and police said the investigation could result in additional charges.
