Rostraver, Pennsylvania — A Pennsylvania woman is facing criminal charges after authorities investigating complaints of a rat infestation allegedly discovered dozens of pigs and other animals living in what officials described as shocking and unsanitary conditions.
The investigation led to the removal of approximately 50 pigs from the property and ultimately resulted in a public nuisance charge.
Rat Complaints Spark Investigation
According to reports, authorities began investigating the property after residents raised concerns about a growing rat problem in the area.
Police and local code enforcement officials reportedly launched an inquiry on May 18 following allegations that rats originating from the property had spread into neighboring homes.
The Rostraver Township Police Department told local media that alleged trash accumulation at the residence may have contributed to a rat colony becoming established and expanding into nearby neighborhoods.
Officials said the situation quickly became more serious as investigators uncovered additional concerns at the property.
Authorities Discover Dozens of Pigs
During the investigation, officials reportedly found approximately 50 pigs on the property. Township Manager Jeffrey Keffer described the challenging operation required to remove the animals.
“Unbelievable. It’s unbelievable in there,” Keffer told.
He added, “We were chasing pigs and corralling pigs. Because there were so many, we had to make multiple trips. I think there were three trailer loads.”
The large-scale removal operation reportedly involved transporting numerous animals from the property over multiple trips.
Officials Describe Conditions as ‘Abhorrent’
Authorities said the conditions they encountered were among the worst they had seen.
Rostraver Police Chief Scott Sokol alleged that many of the pigs were being kept in confined areas and that additional animals were present on the property. According to reports, investigators also found dogs and cats living on-site.
“We found abhorrent conditions, filth to a level that you could not believe,” Sokol claimed.
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He continued, “There were rats present. We found a large number of pigs corralled on the property.”
Officials described the environment as unsanitary and concerning for both animals and nearby residents.
Property Allegedly Operated as Animal Rescue
According to reports, the homeowner, 59-year-old Wendi Kraemer, claimed she operated an animal rescue from the property. Investigators reportedly found that a website had been established seeking donations and financial support for the animals housed there.
However, authorities are now examining whether the conditions at the property were appropriate for caring for such a large number of animals.
Reports indicate the property has since been condemned, although officials have not released extensive details regarding its current status.
Criminal Charge Filed
Court records show Kraemer was arrested and charged with public nuisance on June 2.
A preliminary hearing in the case has been scheduled for July 13. At this stage, the allegations remain accusations, and the charge has not been adjudicated in court.
Meanwhile, authorities continue addressing concerns related to the property and the reported rat infestation affecting neighboring residences.
The case has drawn significant attention locally due to the number of animals involved and the conditions officials say they encountered during the investigation.
What are your thoughts on this unusual case involving dozens of pigs and a reported rat infestation? Share your opinion respectfully in the comments below.
