Authorities remove fifty animals from a town of Union home where a mother and her three children were found living in unsafe conditions

Broome County, New York – Authorities in Broome County say dozens of animals have been removed from a home in the town of Union, where three children were also found living in unsafe conditions. The discovery was made earlier this week on Wayne Street after New York State Police responded to the residence for an unrelated matter.

When troopers entered the house, they reported finding unsanitary and unsafe living conditions, including the presence of numerous animals inside the home. Working with the Broome County Humane Society, town of Union Animal Control, and town of Union Code Enforcement, officers removed a total of 50 animals. The group included dogs, cats, guinea pigs, and birds, all of which were surrendered into the care of the Humane Society. Officials say the animals are now being housed and treated by the organization.

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Three children, all under the age of 17, were residing in the home at the time. Their mother, identified as 50-year-old Rayelene E. Lott, was arrested following the investigation. She is facing three counts of Endangering the Welfare of a Child, one charge for each of her children. Lott was issued appearance tickets and is scheduled to answer the charges in Union Town Court.

The case has raised concerns in the community, not only for the welfare of the animals but also for the children who had been living in the conditions described as deplorable. Officials did not provide details on the children’s current placement or long-term care but confirmed that steps were taken to ensure their safety.

The Broome County Humane Society has taken on the responsibility of providing shelter and treatment for the animals removed from the property. With such a large intake at once, the organization may face challenges in resources and space. Still, officials said the animals are receiving the attention they need after being rescued from the home environment.

Cases of large-scale animal removal are relatively rare, but they often highlight the intersection of animal welfare and child welfare. Law enforcement agencies stress that intervention is necessary when living conditions threaten both human and animal safety. In this situation, officials said the immediate priority was to remove those at risk and ensure they received care.

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As the legal process moves forward, community members are waiting to learn more about the outcome of the charges against Lott and the future of both the children and the animals. Authorities emphasized that the investigation began as an unrelated call, underscoring how quickly circumstances can shift once dangerous living conditions are uncovered.

The incident remains under review by local agencies, and further updates are expected as the case proceeds through the court system.