Queens Hoarder Crammed Nearly 50 Dogs in Filthy Apartment, Faces Jail Time
Isaac Yadgarov, a 37-year-old Queens resident, is facing serious charges after allegedly hoarding nearly 50 Belgian Malinois dogs in his one-bedroom apartment in Forest Hills. The appalling conditions in which the dogs were found have shocked animal welfare officials and neighbors alike.
According to the Queens District Attorney’s Office, Yadgarov has been arraigned on a 96-count indictment for animal abuse and neglect. The discovery of the dogs in his apartment on 62nd Road on May 8 painted a disturbing picture of the living conditions they were subjected to. The dogs were crammed together in a space filled with feces, urine, and debris, with some of them even being found in closets and cupboards with no access to fresh air or sunlight.
The Animal Care Centers of NYC described the scene as “one of the most heartbreaking hoarding cases we’ve ever seen.” Members of the ASPCA and ACC had difficulty navigating the apartment due to the large number of dogs and were overwhelmed by the stench of ammonia from the urine-soaked surroundings.
The NYPD’s Emergency Service Unit had to assist in rescuing the dogs from the apartment. Three of the dogs were in such poor condition that they had to be euthanized, while the rest were taken to the ASPCA and ACC for medical evaluation, feeding, and socialization in preparation for future foster homes or adoption.
Neighbors were shocked to learn of the conditions in which the dogs were living. One neighbor described the apartment as a “hell hole” and mentioned that they had no idea so many dogs were being kept there. Another neighbor mentioned the constant foul odor emanating from the floor and the neglectful behavior of the dog owner.
Yadgarov was not present when the dogs were removed as he had already been evicted from his apartment. He surrendered the dogs a day prior to his arrest and turned himself in on May 13. He now faces 48 counts of overloading, overdriving, and torturing animals, as well as 48 counts of failure to provide adequate food, water, and shelter.
During his arraignment, Judge Edward Daniels released Yadgarov on his own recognizance as the charges were not bail-eligible. His next court date is set for August 5, and if convicted, he could face up to a year behind bars.
The rescued dogs are now receiving the care and attention they deserve, with some being transferred to Posh Pets Rescue, a non-profit organization on Long Island. ASPCA President and CEO Matt Bershadker expressed gratitude for the partnership with the NYPD in saving these animals and ensuring their well-being.
The case of Isaac Yadgarov serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper care and treatment of animals, and the consequences of neglect and abuse. The legal proceedings will hopefully bring justice for the innocent dogs who suffered in appalling conditions at the hands of their hoarder.
