Port Jefferson home deemed 'unsafe' amid animal crimes investigation
A notice reading “Unsafe... Do Not Enter or Occupy” is taped to the front door of the home on Willis Avenue, where police say they served a search warrant as part of an investigation into possible animal-related crimes.
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A house in Port Jefferson is at the center of an active investigation into alleged crimes against animals after authorities executed a search warrant at the property.
A notice reading “Unsafe... Do Not Enter or Occupy” is taped to the front door of the home on Willis Avenue, where police say they served a search warrant as part of an investigation into possible animal-related crimes.
“I hear dogs barking throughout the night,” said Port Jefferson resident Mike Lopez, who lives behind the home.
Lopez said he woke up Monday morning to a significant police presence at the property. He described the house as an eyesore, citing overgrown vegetation, multiple vehicles parked on the lawn and a used animal cage visible on the property.
“There is literally just junk lined along the whole entire fence on the other side,” Lopez said. “This is ridiculous because we have to keep picking up after this.”
Neighbors said they are concerned about the welfare of any animals that may have been living inside the residence, which village officials have deemed unsafe to enter.
“Horrible,” said Julie-Beth Padin, a Port Jefferson resident. “I’m an animal lover. I have two cats, and I just can’t even imagine how someone could do that to an innocent animal.”
Port Jefferson Mayor Lauren Sheprow said Suffolk County police are leading the investigation into the property on Willis Avenue. She said the village is cooperating with authorities but declined further comment.
“I’m not just fed up, everyone else is fed up,” Lopez said.
Authorities have released few details about the case. Suffolk County police and the Suffolk County District Attorney’s BEAST Unit have not said whether any animals were removed from the property.
No charges have been filed at this point.
