A couple from Florida, Michael Clayton Howey, 36, and Brenda Darla Howey, 37, have been apprehended and their children and pets have been rescued after authorities discovered their home in deplorable conditions, reeking of feces, urine, and garbage.

Responding to a complaint from Code Enforcement regarding the accumulation of junk and garbage outside the residence in Beverly Hills, Animal Control officers and deputies from the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the scene on Wednesday. Upon entering the home, they were met by Mr. and Mrs. Howey, who disclosed that they resided there with their two children, ten dogs, and three cats.

Inside the house, deputies were greeted by an overpowering stench of ammonia and encountered cluttered floors strewn with various items. Multiple areas of the residence were found to be covered in dried feces, with the laundry room being particularly heavily soiled and cluttered. Shockingly, the two children were found with feces stuck to the soles of their feet and between their toes, putting them at risk of slipping and falling due to the presence of urine on the floor.

As stated in the affidavit, the entire house was inundated with garbage, displaying signs of prolonged neglect and lack of cleanliness. The appalling conditions prompted Sheriff Mike Prendergast to express his dismay, stating, “It is sickening to me that there are so many irresponsible people out there who are not providing safe living conditions for their children or their ‘pets.'” He further emphasized the collaborative efforts of the animal control unit and code enforcement, ensuring that the victims will not endure such neglectful circumstances again.

The children have been removed from the residence and placed under the care of family friends, while the animals have been relocated to the Citrus County Animal Shelter.

Cases of animal cruelty and the mistreatment of children highlight the importance of responsible and compassionate care for both humans and animals. The diligent response by authorities in rescuing the affected individuals underscores the commitment to safeguarding their well-being.

Source: Fox News