APPLE VALLEY, Calif. — A toddler was found sleeping in a closet with over 50 reptiles, birds, dogs, and cats in California, officials say.
The San Bernadino County Sheriff’s Office says deputies were called out to a home Saturday around 6 p.m. after reports of a disturbance at a home in Apple Valley. When they arrived, they spoke with Jeddidiah Schulz, 38, and a deputy noticed a child in the living room with multiple cats.
SBCS found that over 50 cats, exotic birds, lizards and dogs were living in the home. Deputies also learned that a child was sleeping in a closet and his sleeping bag was covered in cat urine.
KNBC says several rooms inside the home were transformed into habitats for the animals. The home was also covered with wood chips that the cats used as a litter box.
SBCS says Schulz has been booked on a recommended charge of child cruelty and is being held on a $100,000 bail.
The child is in protective custody and animal control was sent to tend to the animals inside the home, says KNBC.
If you or anyone has any information, the SBCS is asking you to call them at 760-956-5001 or the Apple Valley Police at 760-240-7400. Anonymous tips can be made at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463).
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