Woman faces over 100 charges after police discover 48 cats in deplorable conditions
Dead and sick animals found throughout Las Vegas home, some stored in garage
Las Vegas police have charged a woman with more than 100 counts of animal cruelty after discovering 48 cats in horrific conditions at her east valley home, including 27 dead animals and 21 that were severely ill.
Elisabeth Covington was arrested following a search of her residence near Flamingo Road and Mountain Vista Street on Wednesday, August 6, after Clark County Animal Protection Services alerted police to an excessive number of cats at the property.
Gruesome discovery spans entire property
During the search, officers initially found two deceased cats along with several living animals in various states of distress. Further investigation revealed a shocking total of 27 dead cats throughout the property, with some remains stored in the garage.
The 21 surviving cats were all found to be sick and in need of immediate veterinary care. Animal protection officers documented cats living throughout the house in unsanitary conditions.
Years-long pattern of complaints
This wasn’t the first time authorities had been alerted to problems at Covington’s residence. Animal protective services records show they received an initial complaint back in 2023 about a woman keeping more than 20 cats and kittens inside the home, along with feral cats in her care.
Despite the earlier complaint, the situation appears to have deteriorated significantly over the past two years, culminating in the current charges.
Growing problem in Las Vegas Valley
Animal hoarding cases have become an increasing concern for Las Vegas authorities and animal welfare organizations. The Animal Foundation, which operates as the valley’s primary animal shelter, regularly deals with large-scale rescues from hoarding situations.
Earlier this year, the shelter took in 140 animals from just two hoarding cases within a two-week period, putting significant strain on their resources. In one February case, Clark County Animal Protection Services recovered 103 cats from a single home near the Clark County Wetlands Park.
Understanding animal hoarding
Experts describe animal hoarding as a complex psychological disorder that often affects middle-aged individuals and can be triggered by trauma or loss. Hoarders typically believe they are helping animals, despite creating dangerous and unsanitary conditions.
Dr. Gary Patronek, founder of the Hoarding of Animals Research Consortium, notes that hoarders are “by definition oblivious to the extreme suffering of their animals.” The disorder has a near 100 percent relapse rate, making it particularly challenging to address.
Legal consequences mounting
Covington now faces 107 charges related to the discovery at her home. Nevada law allows for both misdemeanor and felony animal cruelty charges depending on the severity of the case.
The case remains under investigation as authorities work to ensure proper care for the surviving animals and pursue appropriate legal action.
Resources for reporting suspected hoarding
Residents who suspect animal hoarding in their neighborhoods are encouraged to contact authorities promptly. Clark County Animal Protection Services can be reached at 702-455-7710.
Jim Andersen, chief of Clark County’s Public Response Office, emphasizes the importance of community awareness: “We’re usually made aware of these things when they get very severe. Folks do need to call us when they believe there’s a hoarding situation happening in their neighborhood.”
Image Sources: https://www.yahoo.com/news/articles/las-vegas-police-27-dead-220313476.html
Category: Local News
Subcategory: Crime & Safety
Date: 08/13/2025
