US News
California animal rescue operator charged after 300 animals seized
Fox News reports that Christine De Anda faces 35 counts, including 12 felony counts of animal cruelty.
The short version
- Christine De Anda, operator of the Rock ‘N’ Pawz rescue, faces 35 total charges, including 12 felony animal cruelty counts and two felony labor theft counts.[Fox News]
- The charges follow a March 2026 search warrant where Los Angeles County authorities seized over 300 animals from alleged severe squalor and neglect.[Fox News]
- De Anda faces up to 24½ years in prison if convicted, with prosecutors requesting bail set at $914,500 ahead of her arraignment.[Fox News]
Key facts
- Christine De Anda was charged with 12 felony counts of animal cruelty, two felony counts of grand theft of labor, and 21 misdemeanor charges.[Fox News]
- More than 300 animals, primarily dogs, were seized from the Rock 'N' Pawz rescue property during a March 20, 2026 search warrant.[Fox News]
- Authorities reported finding animals living in extreme squalor with serious untreated illnesses and injuries, and at least one cat dead from starvation and dehydration.[Fox News]
- De Anda faces up to 24½ years in state prison if convicted on all counts.[Fox News]
What remains uncertain
- The full outcome of the case and the final health status of all rescued animals remain pending as legal proceedings advance.[Fox News]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.