Elder Mistreatment Report Leads to Animal Neglect Case in Central Point
Police say more than 60 cats were found inside a Valley Oak Boulevard home.
CENTRAL POINT, Ore. — A report of possible elder mistreatment in Central Point has led to a broader investigation involving alleged animal abuse and neglect after police say more than 60 cats were found inside a home, including several that were deceased.
According to the Central Point Police Department, officers received a report of possible elder mistreatment on June 8. The case was forwarded to detectives for further investigation.
During the initial contact at the residence, detectives observed information and conditions that raised additional concerns about possible animal neglect and animal abuse. Detectives later applied for and received a search warrant for evidence related to both the elder mistreatment investigation and the suspected animal neglect and abuse.
On June 11, officers and detectives served the warrant in the 600 block of Valley Oak Boulevard in Central Point. Police said the alleged suspect was cooperative during the service of the warrant, and evidence was seized as part of the investigation.
During the search, investigators estimated more than 60 cats were inside the residence in varying levels of health. The cats are being removed from the home and transported to appropriate facilities based on their condition and medical needs. Several cats were also found deceased at the property, according to police.
Central Point police said hazardous conditions inside the home required Animal Control officers and CPPD officers to wear Tyvek suits and respirators. Floors inside the residence were covered with urine and feces, and many of the cats were found confined in small metal cages.
Police identified the alleged suspect as Jennifer Lynn Griswold, 43. She was lodged at the Jackson County Jail on charges of first-degree animal abuse and first-degree animal neglect.
Because the investigation began as a report of possible elder mistreatment, the case is also being forwarded to the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office for review of additional potential charges, which may include criminal mistreatment. Police said additional charges are expected as the investigation continues and evidence is reviewed.
Central Point police were assisted by Jackson County Animal Services, the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office, Oregon Department of Human Services Adult Protective Services, DHS Child Protective Services, Southern Oregon Veterinary Specialty Center, Central Point Public Works, Asante Rogue Regional Medical Center, the Children’s Advocacy Center of Jackson County, SNIP of Siskiyou County, the Oregon SoHumane Society and the United States Marshals Service.
The Central Point Police Department said the coordinated response helped ensure the safety of the alleged victim, preserve evidence and remove animals from unsafe conditions so they could receive appropriate care.
The investigation remains active, and police said no further details will be released at this time.
Cover image: The Central Point Police Department says a report of possible elder mistreatment led to an animal neglect and abuse investigation at a Valley Oak Boulevard home, where more than 60 cats were found in varying levels of health. File photo courtesy of Central Point Police Department.
