Queens Man Charged with Hoarding 48 Dogs in Unsanitary Apartment
Allegations of Animal Neglect and Abuse
A 37-year-old man from Queens is facing serious legal repercussions after allegedly hoarding nearly 50 dogs inside his cramped one-bedroom apartment, which has been described as a “hell hole” by neighbors. The accused, Isaac Yadgarov, has been indicted on 96 counts of animal abuse and neglect, with prosecutors stating he could face up to a year in jail if convicted.
Filthy Living Conditions Revealed
On May 8, officials from animal welfare agencies, in collaboration with the NYPD’s Emergency Service Unit, entered Yadgarov’s seventh-floor apartment in Forest Hills. They were met with a disheartening scene—48 Belgian Malinois dogs crammed into the unit, living amid urine, feces, and debris. According to the Animal Care Centers of NYC, the conditions were so dire that some dogs were found stuffed into closets and other tight spaces without access to fresh air or sunlight.
“This is one of the most heartbreaking hoarding cases we’ve ever seen,” remarked a spokesperson from the Animal Care Centers.
Community Outrage and Disturbing Reports
Neighbors expressed shock over the discovery. One resident noted, “We all assumed there were two or three dogs in there; we never imagined there were so many.” Reports of incessant barking and foul odors had long plagued the building. Another neighbor recounted that Yadgarov displayed signs of neglect, stating, “He throws poop out of his balcony, and the floor always smells bad.”
Following the rescue, three dogs were found in such poor health that they had to be euthanized, while many of the others were taken in for medical evaluations by the ASPCA and ACC.
Legal Proceedings Underway
Yadgarov was not present when the dogs were removed, having been evicted from his apartment days earlier. He subsequently turned himself in on May 13 and has been released on his own recognizance, as the charges against him are not bail-eligible.
He faces 48 counts of overloading, overdriving, and torturing animals, alongside an equal number of neglect charges pertaining to inadequate food, water, and shelter. His next court appearance is scheduled for August 5, where he could receive a maximum sentence of one year in prison.
A Call to Action
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz emphasized the need for stronger protections for animals in the borough, asserting, “We must do better for the animals of this borough.” The situation continues to unfold as the community grapples with the aftermath of this alarming case.
The rescued dogs are now receiving care and will eventually be placed into foster homes or adopted, as efforts continue to provide them the love and attention they desperately need.
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Bio: Marcus is a community-based journalist passionate about reporting impactful stories that matter most to readers.