by LAS VEGAS, NV – Authorities in Las Vegas say they discovered a disturbing case of animal hoarding earlier this month, leading to over 100 charges against a local woman. Police allege that Elisabeth Covington kept at least 48 cats—both alive and deceased—in her east valley home, with some remains found stored in boxes in the garage.
The Initial Investigation
The situation first came to light on Wednesday, Aug. 6, when Clark County Animal Protection Services contacted police about an “excess number of cats” inside a home near Flamingo Road and Mountain Vista Street. Upon entering, officers reported finding two dead cats along with several live ones, many appearing sick, dirty, or malnourished.
Records indicate that animal protective services had been aware of Covington for some time. Back in 2023, the agency received a complaint about her allegedly housing over 20 cats and kittens, in addition to caring for feral cats. At that time, however, no neglect allegations were made, and a warning letter sent to her home received no response.
Disturbing Conditions Inside the Home
The follow-up investigation earlier this year painted a far grimmer picture. An animal control officer reported a strong smell of decomposition and a urine/ammonia odor around the property. Inside, conditions were described as uninhabitable—with feces on the floor, walls covered in filth, and boxes stacked high.
When officers began searching the home on Aug. 6, they found multiple boxes containing dead cats, many stacked on top of one another. According to police, the property was so cluttered and unsanitary that it was “impossible to walk through.”
Animal Rescue Efforts
In total, 27 deceased cats were discovered, along with 21 living ones that were sick, dehydrated, and suffering from neglect. The surviving cats were taken in by The Animal Foundation, a Las Vegas-based shelter, for urgent care and rehabilitation.
During a police interview, Covington reportedly stated she “catches and releases cats”—a claim authorities dispute based on the condition of the animals and the evidence inside her home.
Criminal Charges and Court Proceedings
Covington now faces 107 charges, including animal abuse and failure to comply with sterilization requirements. Prosecutors have not yet formally filed all charges, and during a probable cause hearing last week, a judge did not set bail. A status check in the case is scheduled for Dec. 8.
Authorities noted a discrepancy in official records: police and court documents refer to the defendant as “Convington,” but property records confirm the correct spelling is “Covington.”
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A Pattern of Complaints
According to the police report, this was not the first time concerns had been raised. The earlier 2023 complaint did not result in charges because no evidence of neglect was found at the time. However, as the 8 News Now report details, conditions at the home had deteriorated significantly by 2025, prompting emergency intervention.
Animal welfare officials say the case underscores the challenges of enforcing pet ownership limits and ensuring compliance with care standards—especially when prior warnings go unheeded.
Broader Concerns Over Animal Hoarding
Animal hoarding is a recognized form of neglect that often leads to severe suffering for the animals involved. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), hoarding situations frequently result in:
- Overcrowding and unsanitary conditions
- Untreated illnesses and injuries
- Starvation or dehydration
- High mortality rates among animals
Experts emphasize that while some hoarders begin with good intentions, they may be unable or unwilling to recognize when the situation has become unmanageable—leading to tragic outcomes like those seen in this Las Vegas case.
Legal Penalties and Potential Sentencing
If convicted on felony animal abuse charges, Covington could face years in prison, substantial fines, and a lifetime ban on owning animals. Nevada law treats severe neglect and intentional cruelty toward animals as serious criminal offenses, with enhanced penalties when multiple animals are involved.
Animal rights groups in the region are closely watching the case, calling for strong sentencing and reforms to prevent similar tragedies.
Community Response and Next Steps
The Animal Foundation continues to treat and rehabilitate the surviving cats, many of which may be available for adoption once they recover. Community members have expressed outrage on social media, with many calling for increased resources for animal protection agencies to respond to complaints more swiftly.
The case will return to court in December, where prosecutors are expected to formalize charges and possibly seek pretrial restrictions to prevent Covington from possessing animals during the proceedings.
Have thoughts on this case or experiences with local animal rescue efforts? Share your comments at ibwhsmag.com—your voice can help raise awareness and support for stronger protections for vulnerable animals.
