Deputies seize more than 100 animals from inside southwest Houston apartment

Deputies seized more than 100 animals living in tight quarters inside a southwest Houston apartment Tuesday, July 24, 2018. Deputies seized more than 100 animals living in tight quarters inside a southwest Houston apartment Tuesday, July 24, 2018. Photo: Harris County Precinct 5 Constable's Office Photo: Harris County Precinct 5 Constable's Office Image 1 of / 18 Caption Close Deputies seize more than 100 animals from inside southwest Houston apartment 1 / 18 Back to Gallery

Deputies discovered more than 100 animals living in tight quarters inside a southwest Houston apartment Tuesday.

Harris County Precinct 7 Constable's Office deputies were serving an eviction notice at a complex in the 10200 block of Sugar Branch Drive early Tuesday when they discovered the animals inside the apartment belonging to the residents who were to be evicted.

After seeing the animals' living conditions, the Precinct 7 deputies called the Harris County Animal Cruelty Taskforce – which is comprised of several animal advocacy groups, including the Houston Humane Society and the Harris County Precinct 5 Constable's Office.

OTHER ANIMAL SEIZURES: SPCA seizes 73 livestock and pets from Cypress-area home

In all, deputies discovered 13 ferrets, 16 sugar gliders, 22 chinchilla, two prairie dogs, 11 guinea pigs, six African Grey parrots, 32 cockatiels, and three dogs.

Deputies with the Harris County Precinct 5 Constable's Office secured a warrant to seize the animals from the owner.

The animals will be housed and cared for at Houston Humane Society until a judge determines permanent custody.

Harris County Precinct 5 Constable's Office officials said a criminal investigation is ongoing.

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Jay R. Jordan covers breaking news in the Houston area. Read him on our breaking news site, Chron.com, and our subscriber site, HoustonChronicle.com | Follow him on Twitter at @JayRJordan | Email him at jay.jordan@chron.com