Animal Hoarding Horror: Over 200 Creatures and Elderly Woman Rescued from Long Island Home

Authorities on Long Island discovered more than 200 animals living in deplorable conditions inside a cluttered suburban home last week, according to police reports. The Northport residence was filled with animal waste, insects, and debris, with many areas completely inaccessible. Officers also found a 95-year-old woman trapped in her upstairs bedroom, unable to move freely due to piles of accumulated belongings.

Samantha Boyd, 57, who has described herself as a state-certified wildlife rehabilitator and veterinary technician, was arrested and charged with misdemeanor animal cruelty and endangering a vulnerable elderly person. She has pleaded not guilty. Her partner, 61-year-old Neal Weschler, also faces animal cruelty charges.

The elderly woman, believed to be Elsie Boyd—a British immigrant who came to the U.S. in the 1950s—was removed from the home and placed in care. Authorities declined to release further details citing privacy concerns.

The case came to public attention after John Di Leonardo, president of Humane Long Island, alerted officials about concerns regarding unlicensed wildlife and hoarding conditions on the property. He assisted in removing the animals, which included cats, dogs, chinchillas, flying squirrels, parrots, ferrets, ducks, chipmunks, tortoises, and guinea pigs. Many were found in poor health; some were euthanized due to severe infections.

“The level of neglect was unconscionable,” said Suffolk County Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina in a statement. Authorities confirmed that Samantha Boyd had no prior violations on her wildlife rehabilitator license. She had previously spoken publicly about her passion for rescuing animals, claiming to have saved hundreds over the years.

Investigators describe the situation as a severe case of animal hoarding and say the investigation remains ongoing. The rescued animals are being cared for by several rescue groups, and many will soon be available for adoption, according to the Suffolk County District Attorney’s office.

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