MPD Investigates Animal Neglect Case
Police said multiple live and deceased cats were found after a welfare check led to a search warrant at a Medford residence.
MEDFORD, Ore. — Medford police are investigating an animal neglect case after a Thursday welfare check led officers to obtain a search warrant for a residence in the 1800 block of Roxy Ann Place.
According to the Medford Police Department, officers responded Thursday afternoon in coordination with Jackson County Mental Health and the Mobile Crisis Team.
Police said officers were unable to make contact with the resident when they arrived. During the response, officers observed a deceased cat in plain view inside the residence.
Based on those observations and information gathered during the initial investigation, police obtained a search warrant. Officers later located and contacted the resident before serving the warrant at the property.
As the investigation continued, the Medford Police Livability Team, Code Enforcement and Jackson County Animal Control responded to assist.
During the search, investigators said they located multiple live and deceased cats on the property.
Police identified the resident as Wendy Diamond, 65. She is facing seven counts of Animal Neglect in the First Degree, a felony, according to MPD. Police said additional charges may be pending.
The Jackson County District Attorney’s Office has been consulted as part of the investigation.
Jackson County Animal Control is taking custody of the live cats found on the property and will oversee their care and evaluation.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Cover image: A Medford Police Department vehicle is parked outside a residence in the 1800 block of Roxy Ann Place, where a Thursday welfare check later developed into an animal neglect investigation involving multiple cats. Photo by Medford Police Department.
