Blind homeowner won't be charged after more than 100 dogs found in home

ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. — Channel 9 learned an Altamonte Springs homeowner will not be charged despite more than 100 dogs being found in the home.

Authorities said they received an anonymous tip about dogs at a home on Castile Drive near Majorica Avenue. When authorities arrived, they found about 100 dogs, 58 of which were crammed into a single room.

Crews worked throughout the day Thursday to rescue the dogs, which were living in terrible conditions, investigators said.

"They've actually taken over the house," said Officer Robert Pelton of the Altamonte Springs Police Department. "They're all over, living in every room and every space inside the house."

Police said the home was tough to navigate due to the amount of feces and the deplorable conditions inside.  In fact, investigators said the rescuers had to wear hazmat suits before entering the home and that the homeowner was actually living out of the garage.

Officials said the dogs were mostly small and that there were numerous litters.

Workers spent the day loading the animals into crates and taking them to a local animal shelter.

Investigators said the homeowner, whose name hasn’t been released, is legally blind and surrendered all of the dogs.

"Once the removal process is done, this house will be condemned," said Pelton. "It is unlivable conditions as of right now."

Police said most of the dogs appear to be in OK condition. They said none have been found dead.

The SPCA showed up and called in volunteers to help remove the dogs.

Some police and fire officials told Channel 9 it was the worst case of animal hoarding they have ever seen.

WFTV