BAY SHORE, NY - A Bay Shore couple was arrested for failing to care for their 9 cats on Thursday, according to Suffolk County SPCA.

Michelle Tashbook, 46, and Michael Tashbook, 42, were both charged with animal cruelty for failure to provide proper sustenance for their cats, the SPCA said. The Suffolk County SPCA launched an investigation after receiving a complaint about the conditions the cats were living in.

Inside, the investigators, forced to wear hazard protection gear, found the animals living in unsanitary and inhumane living conditions, the SPCA said. The home was condemned by the Town of Islip Fire Marshal.



Both were released on bail. They are scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 19. If convicted, the couple will be required by law to register with the Suffolk County Animal Abuse Registry.

Each person registered with Suffolk County shall remain on the Animal Abuse Registry for five years following his release and must notify of any change of residence.