Woman in Car with 13 Cats Faces Code Violations
- A woman in Florence living in her car with 13 cats faces dozens of code violations.
- Animal control officers in Boone County charged her with 26 ordinance violations - two for each cat.
- Despite the charges, the woman refuses to give up her beloved animals.
In Burlington, a woman named Powell is grappling with legal issues related to her ownership of 13 cats, which she keeps in her car. Despite attempts by Boone County Animal Control, led by Colleen Bray, to assist her, Powell was unable to maintain care for the animals. During a recent court appearance, Powell expressed her need for legal representation, highlighting the challenges individuals face when navigating the legal system without adequate support. Legal experts, including Marcia Ziegler from Northern Kentucky University, emphasize the importance of having an attorney in such cases. While judges can appoint public defenders for ordinance violations, these legal resources are often limited when jail time is not a likely outcome. Ziegler pointed out that while the court may have the authority to remove the animals, it does not address Powell's underlying need for stable housing, illustrating a gap in the system's ability to provide comprehensive support. Powell's situation has drawn attention to the broader issues of animal welfare and homelessness, as she asserts her dignity, stating, “We’re not dirt.” Her plight resonates with many who find themselves in similar predicaments, struggling to balance their love for pets with the harsh realities of life. Following media coverage of Powell's case, Boone County officials have indicated they will reevaluate her circumstances, potentially leading to new solutions for her and her cats.