100+ animals found at NC woman’s hoarder house

PITT COUNTY, N.C. (WNCT) — A North Carolina woman is being held on a six-figure bond after authorities say a hoarding investigation uncovered more than 100 animals at her property.

Court documents state that 70-year-old Donna Edwards of Pitt County is the focus of the investigation and is facing dozens of animal cruelty charges.

Arrest warrants allege that Edwards unlawfully and willfully tormented multiple animals and failed to provide them with necessary food and care. Animal control officers reported finding 35 animals dead on the property and 67 still alive.

Among the animals rescued from the home were 49 dogs, five rabbits, one hedgehog, one tortoise, two bearded dragons, four tarantulas, four snakes, and one bird. The warrants also listed the approximate age and breed of each dog, including Shih Tzus, Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, and Pomeranians.

WNCT previously reported that authorities conducted a welfare check at the home on Wednesday, March 18, after receiving reports that animals were living in poor conditions. During the check, animal control officers and Pitt County Animal Services Director Officer Kimmie Mitchell discovered the hoarding situation and began removing the animals.

Because of the large number of animals taken in during the rescue, Pitt County Animal Services temporarily closed for several days before reopening on March 23.

Edwards is currently being held at the Pitt County Jail on a $175,000 secured bond. Her first court appearance is scheduled for Tuesday.