Police and other officials searched a home on Mitchell Street in Norwich Thursday, after a report of unsanitary conditions inside. A number of people were charged with endangerment and animal cruelty offenses. The City of Norwich Police said officials were forced to remove children, disabled persons, 20 undernourished dogs, and a number of other animals. (Photo by Tyler Murphy)

NORWICH – Following an investigation at a Norwich residence, the City of Norwich Police and Chenango County Sheriff's Office rescued two children and two disabled adults allegedly living in an unsanitary home along with 20 undernourished dogs, eight rabbits, four guinea pigs, three cats, and numerous kittens.

“This was a house full of animal and human feces, infestations of bugs and deplorable living conditions. I cannot fathom how people can live like this or treat animals this way,” said Norwich Police Chief Reuben J. Roach.

Neighbors said Thursday they often heard barking and could detect a rancid smell coming from the property.

The City of Norwich Codes Department has condemned this house, and Chenango, Delaware and Susquehanna organizations are caring for and attempting to place these animals.

On Thursday the NPD responded to 60 Mitchell Street in the City of Norwich to assist the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office with a separate investigation.

According to Roach, “Upon arrival, the Norwich Police Department officers noticed unlivable conditions and numerous emaciated and undernourished dogs. A subsequent investigation revealed that within the residence there were over 20 dogs that were all undernourished and one dog that had to be rushed to Pet Street Station Veterinary Office, where its condition is listed as serious as of the time of this press release.” A number of other animals were also reported by police.

Additionally, police reported finding, “two juvenile children.”

“Also within the residence were two disabled adults who were immediately transported to UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital with Adult Protective Services,” reported Roach.

The Norwich police arrested several people Thursday, following an investigation into animal cruelty and neglect. All defendants were released and issued appearance tickets to appear at Norwich City Court at a later date.

Barbara A. Herbert, 48, of Norwich, was charged with two counts of first degree endangering the welfare of an incompetent person, Class E felonies. She was also charged with endangering the welfare of a child, sixth degree conspiracy and seven counts of animal cruelty, misdemeanors.

Norman J. Herbert, 50, of Norwich, was charged with two counts of first degree endangering the welfare of an incompetent person, Class E felonies. He was also charged with endangering the welfare of a child, sixth degree conspiracy, and five counts of animal cruelty, misdemeanors.

Americus B. Herbert, 20, of Norwich, was charged with endangering the welfare of a child, sixth degree conspiracy, and eight counts of animal cruelty, misdemeanors.

Stacy L. Cox, 51, of Norwich, was charged with endangering the welfare of a child, sixth degree conspiracy, and three counts of animal cruelty, misdemeanors.

Johnathan A. Fuller, 22, of Norwich, was charged with endangering the welfare of a child, sixth degree conspiracy, and two counts of animal cruelty, misdemeanors.

Kendra A. Cummings, 20, of Norwich, was charged with endangering the welfare of a child.

The Norwich Police Department thanks the following agencies for their assistance: the Chenango County SPCA, the Delaware County Humane Society, the Susquehanna SPCA, the Department of Social Services, the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office, Adult Protective Services, city codes and fire departments, UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital, and the Pet Street Station Veterinary Office.

All crimes described are allegations, and suspects named are innocent of the charges until proven guilty in a court of law.