RISPCA seizes 40 animals from Central Falls apartment related to suspicious death investigation

CENTRAL FALLS, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said 40 animals were seized from a Central Falls apartment related to a suspicious death investigation on Monday, according to the RISPCA.

According to the organization, 6 dogs and over 30 cats were found at the residence on Central Street.

The residence is also connected to the suspicious death investigation of 24-year-old Erica Bader.

Bader was found dead in Pawtucket on Oct. 27, and police connected her death to a residence on Central Street.

Six Central Falls residents were charged with failing to report a death.

On Monday, RISPCA said the animals were found in “horrible conditions without food and water and needed immediate assistance.”

“These animals, technically, were abandoned, no one has been here for more than five days, and in Rhode Island, though, ownership for animals, theoretically, rests with whoever is in their possession,” RISPCA President Wayne Kezirian said. “The property owner has cooperated, he has signed over all rights, so we will be able to move these animals quickly once they’ve been seen by a vet.”

Kezirian said some animals will be available for adoption “as early as 10 days from now,” but many will need medical assistance.

Anyone interested in donating to the organization or learning more can visit rispca.org.