PRESTON – No charges have been filed against a Preston man who had roughly 17 cats – 11 of which have already been euthanized – living amidst scattered piles of garbage and feces in a house on Tamarac Road, the county Sheriff’s Department confirmed Monday.

The animals’ owner, David Moon, vacated the home at 574 Tamarac Road early last week after being evicted several weeks ago. It’s believed that neighbors provided food and water for the cats that were left behind. However, an SPCA official said the animals were in rough condition when found, and were put to sleep.

“They were very sick and very aggressive,” said Chenango County SPCA Executive Director Carol Hedlund. “At least they are not there anymore.”

Approximately six other cats could not be caught and remain at the home, and will most likely have to be put to sleep once rounded-up, Hedlund admitted.

“It’s very unfortunate,” she said.