Over 40 Animals Suffer in ‘Noxious’ Conditions in Ronkonkoma

A Long Island resident faced allegations of animal cruelty when authorities discovered numerous animals living in her home under deplorable conditions.

Linda Hart, a 79-year-old resident of Ronkonkoma, was arrested at her residence on Tuesday, April 2, as reported by the Suffolk County Police SPCA.

SPCA members and Suffolk County Police conducted a search of Hart's home around noon following a complaint, revealing that she had been housing 49 animals inside the residence.

The dogs were confined to cages throughout the house, and upon removal, authorities noted that many animals were coated in urine and feces. Additionally, numerous animals exhibited severe matting and were infested with thousands of maggots and flies, as reported by authorities.

Furthermore, investigators reportedly struggled to breathe due to the allegedly "noxious" air within Hart's home.

Reportedly, the Town of Ronkonkoma deemed Hart's residence uninhabitable due to the hazardous and unsanitary conditions found inside.

The Islip Hazmat Unit, Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department, Islip Animal Control, Islip Building Inspector, Islip Fire Marshal, and Lakeland Fire Department all provided additional assistance in managing the situation.

Hart faces 49 counts of animal cruelty and is scheduled to appear in Central Islip’s First District Court on Monday, April 22.

The Suffolk County SPCA also urged anyone who witnesses incidents of animal cruelty or neglect to report them by calling 631-382-7722.

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