CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — On Monday, the individual behind a self-described animal sanctuary was apprehended after law enforcement officials reported finding several dead animals on the premises.

Members of the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office were called to a residence on East Oak Court in Floral City following complaints about animal neglect at Hess Haven, the purported rescue facility.

Upon investigation, deputies reported finding multiple dead cats sealed in garbage bags, a deceased dog confined within a transport cage, and three dead birds within a chicken coop. Inside the dwelling, authorities discovered one dog and nine cats living amidst litter boxes overflowing with waste.

An outdoor shed was found to contain 12 more cats, all deprived of food and water, as per the sheriff’s office report. In total, 43 animals were rescued from the property and transferred to Citrus County Animal Services for medical check-ups and care.

The property’s owner, 24-year-old Jordyn Hess, was taken into custody at the Citrus County Detention Facility, facing charges of aggravated animal cruelty and animal cruelty, according to deputies.

“No matter how many cases you work, you never get used to seeing animals living and dying in conditions like these,” Deputy Gallant said in a statement. “These animals were living in conditions no creatures should ever endure, and getting them out while holding someone accountable was our absolute priority.”

CCSO is also reminding residents to thoroughly research and verify the legitimacy of any rescue organization before donating money, supplies or animals.