WELLINGTON, Ohio (WJW) — Officials with the Friendship Animal Protective League said they are continuing to investigate after serving a search warrant at an animal rescue operated by Michelle Knight, who is now known as Lily Rose Lee.
Friendship APL officials said they received a complaint of animal neglect and started an investigation.
“On November 20th, 2024, after failing to gain the cooperation of the suspect, the Friendship APL Humane Agent executed a search warrant at the property,” a release from Friendship APL stated. “Inside the residential home that housed the rescue, the Humane Agent discovered several thin and/or emaciated animals, cages that appeared to not have been cleaned in weeks, a fly infestation due to unsanitary conditions, and dehydrated animals without access to fresh water, including bowls filled with mold and algae.”
APL officials said as a result of the conditions, 37 animals were removed from the property and that the operator of the rescue surrendered the “vast majority” of the animals.
Lee said the rescue is housed inside her home. She said she cares for the animals and does not believe she has done anything wrong.
“My heart has a huge hole in it, “ Lee told the Fox 8 I-Team Thursday. “I miss my support animals.”
APL officials said 19 animals remain at the property.
The animals removed from the property are currently impounded at the Friendship Animal Protective League and have received veterinary assessments and care.
Lee said she was shocked the agents came to her house.
“I don’t feel comfortable in my own home right now,” Lee said. “My babies are gone, and the only prayer I have is if you want to donate please contact me. “
Lee is not facing any criminal charges.
“Friendship Animal Protective League values its fellow animal rescue operations and understands that it is all too easy for animal rescuers to become overwhelmed. However, help in these situations can only be provided when that help is asked for or welcomed,” the APL release stated. “Further, to clarify statements being made by the suspect in this case, Friendship Animal Protective League has made no demands that the rescue operation obtain “new” cages, nor has it requested money from the operator of the rescue in order to continue operations. All animals remaining on the premises are in appropriate cages. Friendship Animal Protective League cannot share further details about this case as it is an active investigation. A probable cause hearing will be scheduled to determine where the animals that were not surrendered will be housed while the case progresses through the legal system.”
APL officials say they do not know how long the investigation will take.