Central Montana Times

The Great Falls Police Department (GFPD) conducted an animal seizure operation on March 11, 2025, at a residence in the 600 block of 12th St N. Officers from Animal Control, Patrol, and Detectives seized a total of 18 cats initially, followed by two more the next day.

The action was prompted by an anonymous tip regarding approximately 40 cats living under poor conditions in the basement. Animal Control Officers attempted to check on the welfare of the animals but were unable to enter without permission. With further investigation involving Montana Probation and Parole Officers and GFPD Detectives, a search warrant for Aggravated Animal Cruelty was obtained from the Cascade County Attorney’s Office.

Aggravated Animal Cruelty is classified as a felony under MCA 45-8-217. It involves intentional cruelty inflicted on animals or when such acts affect ten or more animals. In this instance, it was found that the cats lacked adequate water and that sanitation conditions in the home were unsuitable for habitation.

After capturing all 20 cats—including a mother with four three-week-old kittens—they were placed in temporary care at the Great Falls Animal Shelter. ACO Ethridge noted that one dog was also impounded during this operation. Ethridge stated, “The cats are friendly and seem to be in relatively good health, considering the conditions they were living in.” Fortunately, no injuries occurred during the investigation, though none of these animals are currently available for adoption.

Great Falls city ordinance restricts residences to two cats and two dogs unless permits for multiple animals or hobby breeding are approved.