Rio Hondo woman, Martha Edwards, arrested after animal cruelty investigation

Authorities warned woman to clean up property, animals 10 months ago

TEXAS -- Police arrested Rio Hondo resident Martha Edwards Friday morning after removing nearly two dozen dogs from her home. The property had no running water or electricity, and at least one dead dog.

Earlier this month, Edwards claimed her dog was taken from her by the Laguna Madre Humane Society after rescuers took the dog for treatment.

Laguna Madre workers said the dog needed emergency veterinary care. They also said the dog was in such bad condition, they could not figure out what type of breed she was.

Last week, Harlingen Humane Society's Kim Warunek said Edwards was a foster parent for the Harlingen Humane Society. After learning of the conditions inside of Edwards' home, Warunek went to the Rio Hondo Police Department and claimed Edwards was an animal hoarder.

“It's a clear cut case of a hoarding situation,” Warunek said.

Rio Hondo police arrested Edwards at her home on Catherine Street Friday morning on charges of animal cruelty.

Edwards, however, was first transported to the hospital after she had an anxiety attack in the back of the police car.

Animal handlers removed a total of 19 dogs from her home, one of which may have suffered a heart attack. The other animals were also in need of medical attention.

“She’s been hoarding animals for a long time. We've been trying to work with her for the last months 10 months to no avail. She’s actually made things worse- she brought more animals in,” said Rio Hondo Police Chief William Bilokury.

Bilokury said the issue inside and around the home was creating a health hazard for neighbors.

“It’s created a horrible environment for both animals and humans to occupy,” Bilokury said.

Action 4 News obtained photos from the Rio Hondo Police Department that show feces scattered throughout the home, and one picture of the skeletal remains of a dog.

Edwards’ mother, who lives across the street, was distraught during her daughter's arrest. She said her daughter was only trying to help the animals.

“She was trying to do the right thing with all the strays,” she said. “She was trying to save them.”

Under Rio Hondo law, every home is limited to three registered and vaccinated dogs, said Humane Society officials.

Several of the dogs found inside of Edward’s home were unregistered and unvaccinated, according to Rio Hondo Police. Two parakeets were also rescued from her home.

(Valley Central - Aug 14, 2015)