‘Surrounded by Filth’: 48 Dogs Rescued From NYC Apartment of Horror

In a harrowing case of animal cruelty, 48 dogs were found crammed inside a one-bedroom apartment in Forest Hills, Queens. Discovered during an eviction on May 8, the dogs were living in unspeakable squalor, with rescuers describing a scene that left them struggling to breathe and shocked at the scale of neglect.

A Scene 'Beyond Comprehension'

According to a statement from Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, officers from the New York Police Department, the ASPCA and NYC's Animal Care Centers were called to a seventh-floor apartment after tenant Isaac Yadgarov was evicted. What they found inside defied belief. The dogs, all Belgian Malinois mixes, were stuffed into closets, cabinets, kitchen drawers, and makeshift cages, with floors slick with feces and air thick with ammonia.

The ASPCA confirmed the animals ranged in age from young puppies to adults and had allegedly never been outdoors before their rescue. Some were discovered in complete darkness, lacking fresh air or sunlight. The overwhelming smell and filth prompted some responders to don protective gear as they worked to remove the dogs from the residence.

Criminal Charges and an Ongoing Case

Yadgarov, 37, turned himself in on May 13 and was charged with 96 misdemeanor counts — 48 for overdriving, torturing and injuring animals, and 48 for failing to provide adequate food, water and shelter. If convicted, he faces up to one year in jail. The defendant is due back in court on Aug. 5.

Three of the dogs were so severely ill that they had to be euthanized. The remaining animals are currently receiving medical and behavioral care in local shelters and ASPCA facilities. Some have been transferred to foster homes or placed with rescue partners to prepare for eventual adoption.

Long Road to Recovery

Rescue workers and volunteers say the dogs face a long journey toward physical and emotional healing. Malnourished, matted and traumatized, many of the animals were initially too fearful to accept human touch. However, progress has been slow but visible.

"They've suffered so much," said one ASPCA official, according to PEOPLE. "But at least they're safe now."

Matt Bershadker, president and CEO of the ASPCA, emphasized the importance of partnerships in addressing cases like these. "These Belgian Malinois-mixes ... are finally receiving the love and care they deserve," he said, according to the ASPCA website. "We look forward to witnessing their journey to new homes where they will be free to experience life as a beloved pet — likely for the first time."

Red Flags and Missed Warnings?

Neighbors reportedly had no idea what was happening behind the apartment door. Yadgarov allegedly claimed he was planning to surrender the dogs voluntarily but vanished after being evicted. Authorities say he never followed through and had allowed conditions to deteriorate far beyond what could be reasonably explained as a delayed surrender.

Though hoarding is often rooted in mental health struggles, the criminal charges make clear that the legal system is treating this as a serious breach of animal welfare laws. The case is a disturbing reminder of the need for vigilance in addressing potential animal cruelty and ensuring that vulnerable creatures aren't left to suffer in silence.

The Fight Against Animal Cruelty

While this rescue mission represents a tragic discovery, it also underscores the strength of collaboration among the ASPCA, NYPD, and local agencies. Their rapid intervention saved dozens of lives.

"This rescue operation is a stark reminder of the need to address and prevent animal cruelty in New York City," Bershadker said, according to the ASPCA.

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz echoed the sentiment: "Animals are voiceless and vulnerable and deserve to be treated with basic care and decency."

The future remains uncertain for Yadgarov, who awaits trial. But for the dogs, a new chapter has begun — one filled with compassion, care and, hopefully, forever homes.

References: NYPD Finds 48 Dogs Living in Squalor in 1-Bedroom Apartment: 'Surrounded by Filth' | Over 40 Dogs Rescued from Extremely Unsanitary, Overcrowded Conditions in NYC Apartment