MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Brooklyn Park Woman Charged After 29 Cats and Dog Removed From Condemned Home

BROOKLYN PARK, MN (August 21, 2026) A 68-year-old Brooklyn Park woman faces six counts of animal neglect after authorities recovered 29 cats, including three that were dead, and a dog from a home that investigators described as unsafe for people and animals.

The allegations are contained in court documents filed in Hennepin County. The charges identify the defendant as Ann Rickson. The allegations have not been proven in court, and Rickson is presumed innocent unless convicted.

The investigation began after a city employee conducting an inspection in response to neighborhood complaints encountered several animals and noticed conditions that prompted additional concern. Brooklyn Park police subsequently visited the West Broadway home with an Animal Humane Society investigator.

According to the charges, officers observed groups of cats and kittens around the property and detected the smell of urine, feces and mold while standing outside. Police returned with a search warrant on July 22 and wore respirators and other protective equipment while entering the home.

Investigators reported finding extensive animal waste throughout the house. An ammonia reading inside the property measured 25.4 parts per million, according to the complaint. The home was later condemned as unfit for human occupancy.

Authorities recovered 26 living cats and the remains of three others. Three of the surviving cats reportedly required removal of their eyes because of serious health problems associated with their living conditions. A Rottweiler named Dewey was also removed from the property.

Rickson was taken to a hospital and was not being held in custody when the charges were reported. Her first court appearance is scheduled for September 9.

The case remains pending. The filing of criminal charges represents an accusation and does not constitute a finding of guilt.

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