
Top inset: Melissa Dawn Heward. Bottom inset: Samantha Lynn Heward. Background: The Florida home where authorities found kids and animals living in “inhumane conditions” (Citrus County Sheriff)
A Florida mother and daughter face charges after deputies said they found two children and 18 dogs and cats living at a home in “inhumane and unhealthy living conditions.”
Melissa Dawn Heward, 42, and Samantha Lynn Heward, 21, face multiple animal cruelty charges, the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.
“These arrests serve as a reminder that our community will not tolerate animal cruelty or neglect,” Sheriff Mike Prendergast said in a statement. “We are committed to protecting all lives, including those of animals, and ensuring that those who cause harm are held accountable.”