Hereford, AZ – A woman who operated a rescue organization in Arizona is facing nearly 150 animal cruelty charges following the discovery of dead animals in a freezer, and neglected animals living in deplorable conditions. The Cochise County Sheriff’s Office said 56-year-old Jill Houchens was arrested on February 19 on 146 charges of Animal Cruelty/Neglect, including 27 felony counts and 119 misdemeanors.

An investigation was launched after an animal cruelty complaint was made on February 6. Sheriff Mark Dannels writes:

During the course of the investigation a search warrant was served at the home on February 9, 2024. Animal Control Officers and Deputies made entry to the residence and discovered several neglected animals living in extremely poor conditions. The areas where animals were kept was filled with feces and there was no clean area for the animals to stand. There was little to no water available for any of the animals and no food left out.

There were 19 animals who survived the neglected; they are currently being held as evidence until this case is adjudicated.

Houchens is affiliated with an area animal rescue and pet-sitting services. AZ Family reports that Houchens worked for the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office as an animal control officer from 2012-2017.

(Image of Houchens via Cochise County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page)

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