South Carolina – A South Carolina man and woman, 34-year-old AIicia and 41-year-old Jusstin, were arrested in early June after returning from a vacation to Florida. Authorities charged both parents with three counts of iII treatment of animaIs and one count of unIawfuI negIect of a child. Bond for each was set at $25,000.
The case began on May 27 when police officers and animal control were dispatched to the family’s home in South Carolina. Inside, they encountered the couple’s daughter, 17. The teen answered the door and contacted her parent, who granted permission for authorities to enter.
Once inside, officers discovered an alarming environment. The house contained three live dogs and 39 live cats. Officers also found several dead cats scattered throughout, and animaI f-ces covering floors in various areas. In a freezer without power, they located approximately 20 additional dead cats.
South Carolina authorities took note of the unfit living conditions and deemed the situation potentially dangerous for the minor at home. The arrest warrants indicate that while the teen remained in the home, the parents left for Florida, leaving their daughter alone in an environment they reportedly knew was unsafe.
When the coupIe (SEE PHOTO) returned from Florida, they were arrested on June 10. Each posted a $25,000 bond later that day. Their daughter remains in protective custody under the care of local authorities, as the investigation continues.
Investigators from the police department and animal control are working to determine how long the animals were deceased, whether any animals belonged to the family or were strays, and if the living animals suffered neglect. No statements from the couple have been released publicly, and it’s unclear whether they have provided an account to responding officers.
The charges against them—three counts of ill treatment of animals and one count of unlawful neglect of a child—reflect the serious nature of leaving a juvenile alone in a hazardous environment with decomposing animals and unsanitary conditions.
The case remains under review by law enforcement. Prosecutors will decide whether to file additional charges as evidence continues to be processed. At this time, there is no indication of legal representation for the couple having made a statement. The teen has not been reported injured, but authorities continue to assess her well‑being following the incident.
This stark case raises concerns about parental responsibility and animal welfare, and what counts as safe supervision for minors. As the investigation unfolds and the court process advances, more details will emerge regarding the conditions inside the home, the parents’ intentions, and the health of the surviving animals.
