Springfield couple hit with 22 counts of animal cruelty

A Springfield couple has been hit with 22 counts of animal cruelty after hundreds of animals — some dead, and some in horrible health — were found on their property, according to the MSPCA.

The Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals filed a complaint in Springfield District Court on Friday after an Aug. 11 inspection, brought on by an anonymous complaint, that found more than 200 dead animals stored in freezers and refrigerators, and more than 100 animals living in filth.

“We’re charging 11 counts each for failure to provide necessary veterinary care, and for keeping the animals in an unsanitary environment,” said Rob Halpin, a spokesman for the MSPCAAngell.

The animals were found at the Allen Street property of Kathleen McHendry and Ronald Richard. An attorney representing McHendry could not be reached for comment.

They could face up to seven years in prison, and fines of up to $5,000 each, Halpin said.

The animals that were found alive were taken to various locations, including the Humane Society in Springfield, Halpin said.

MSPCA took two dogs — one that was too aggressive and had to be euthanized — along with two parrots and 10 cats.

Six of the cats have been adopted, but the other four are in particularly bad shape, suffering from “multiple infections” and are “underweight and scared,” Halpin said.

“They need dental work and some other health care, and eventually we’ll put them up for adoption, too,” Halpin said.

The couple are scheduled to be arraigned on Oct. 9.