The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office arrested a 55-year-old North Port woman after Animal Services Officers discovered her cat was emaciated, in need of medical care, and sleeping in its own excrement.
Animal Services Officers first responded on April 9 to 414 Granada Drive for a complaint that resident, Shirley Ann Duncan, DOB 04/09/63, was neglecting several animals inside her home. While speaking with Duncan, officers noticed one cat (Furby) was emaciated, in distress, and had fur matted with urine and feces. Duncan claimed the cat was suffering from an illness however, could not provide proof of veterinary care. Furby was subsequently taken to an animal hospital for medical treatment however, due to the animal’s suffering, Furby had to be humanely euthanized.
On Monday, deputies responded to Duncan’s home and impounded 55 cats, 23 mice, three ferrets, and two dogs. Duncan was arrested and taken to the Sarasota County Jail. She is charged with Aggravated Cruelty to Animals and Abandonment. Duncan was released Tuesday morning on $2,000 bond. All the animals remain in the custody of Animal Services as the investigation continues.