Coon Rapids, Minnesota (trfnews.i234.me) — A Coon Rapids woman faces multiple criminal charges after authorities discovered a horrific scene inside a foreclosed home: 21 dead cats and dozens more living in squalid conditions.
According to a criminal complaint filed in Anoka County, 59-year-old Jacqueline Marie Broberg is accused of mistreating the animals between January and March 2024.
The case began on March 1, 2024, when a real estate company employee entered a foreclosed property to prepare it for resale. Inside, he discovered between 30 and 40 cats living without access to food or water. Law enforcement responded to the scene and found the home’s interior contaminated with animal waste, fur, and dust. The ammonia odor was so overpowering that officers needed masks to enter safely, court documents said.
Authorities reported the house appeared to be abandoned, with most personal belongings removed. Due to limited resources, officers removed only the most visibly ill and accessible animals, immediately transporting five cats to the Animal Humane Society. Among those first rescued was a severely malnourished kitten, later named “Lefty,” who suffered from a ruptured eye and dehydration. Despite veterinary intervention, the kitten was eventually euthanized.
In the days following, a rescue group removed 78 more cats from the property. Several of the animals showed signs of severe neglect, including painful eye infections and untreated dental disease. In total, 21 deceased cats were recovered from the home, including one found decayed inside a mattress.
Investigators determined that Broberg had lived at the residence until shortly before the discovery. Records showed she’d applied for a multiple-pet permit in 2022, stating she owned only five cats at the time. Neighbors had previously complained about the number of animals and frequent sightings of roaming cats on the property. Despite its changing ownership, Broberg remained in the house past the foreclosure and eviction process. Deputies confirmed she was present as recently as Feb. 16, 2024, but had vacated by Feb. 22, just days before the animals were found.
Broberg now faces five charges: one felony count of animal cruelty resulting in death or great bodily harm, three gross misdemeanor counts of animal torture, and one misdemeanor count for depriving animals of food, water, or shelter. The felony charge carries a maximum penalty of two years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
Broberg has been summoned to appear in court on the charges, and a booking photo is not yet available.
Did you know?
Minnesota law requires a special permit for households with four or more cats. Failing to obtain this permit, especially when combined with neglect, can lead to criminal charges.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News