EDISON, N.J. — A man has been arrested and a home condemned after authorities discovered more than 100 animals living in deplorable conditions in Edison on Sunday night. The discovery was made after police responded to a medical call at a residence on Stony Road West, where officers found the property filled with animals kept in unsanitary surroundings.
According to Edison police, officers were initially dispatched to the home to assist one of two men who appeared to be experiencing a medical emergency. Upon entering the property, officers found multiple animals confined in cages both inside and outside the residence. The front yard was lined with cages, and a large storage container sat in the driveway, which investigators believe may have been used to store or house animals.
Inside, authorities discovered what they described as “squalid living conditions,” with animals being kept in cramped, unclean spaces. Many of the animals were reportedly found in the basement, where strong odors and debris made the environment unsafe. Police said the home contained 14 dogs, 60 chickens, 34 rabbits, nine pigeons, and several other birds. Rats were also observed on the property.
Emergency responders immediately called for assistance from Edison Animal Control and local fire officials. The animals were safely removed from the residence and taken to shelters and facilities for medical evaluation and care. Officials confirmed that all animals have since been relocated to secure environments where they are receiving proper treatment.
Edison Fire Chief and Health Department officials assessed the home and deemed it uninhabitable due to the contamination and structural risks. The property was condemned, power to the residence was disconnected, and crews began ventilating the interior to remove hazardous air. Authorities have confirmed that there is no current danger to nearby residents or the surrounding neighborhood.
The Edison Police Detective Bureau and the Edison Animal Control Unit are leading the ongoing investigation. Preliminary findings indicate that the animals had been kept in poor conditions for an extended period of time. Investigators are also working to determine whether additional individuals were involved in the neglect.
The homeowner, whose name has not yet been released pending formal charges, was taken into custody and charged with multiple counts of animal cruelty. Police said more charges could follow depending on the results of the investigation and the condition of the animals once veterinary assessments are completed.
Neighbors told officers they had occasionally noticed odors or noise from the property but were unaware of the full extent of the situation until emergency crews arrived. The incident has raised renewed concern over animal welfare enforcement and the need for stronger community awareness regarding signs of neglect.
Authorities expressed appreciation for the cooperation of local shelters and rescue organizations assisting with the relocation and care of the animals. Officials emphasized that the incident underscores the importance of reporting suspected cases of animal cruelty and neglect promptly to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As the investigation continues, Edison police have assured residents that public safety remains a priority. The condemned home will remain secured while environmental cleanup and health inspections are completed. The rescued animals are expected to remain under the care of local shelters until permanent arrangements are made.
