Overview

• Deputies conducting a welfare check Sunday at a Santa Nella Taco Bell found 106 severely emaciated cats and 28 deceased inside a U-Haul van.
• Authorities charged 69-year-old Jeannie Maxon with 93 counts of animal cruelty; she remains in custody at Merced County Jail.
• The rescued cats, ranging in age from one week to eight years, are receiving treatment at Merced County Animal Services.
• Investigators found no food or water in the vehicle after temperatures reached about 100°F, highlighting the dangers of leaving animals in closed cars.
• Officials plan to make the cats available for adoption once they are medically cleared, with veterinary partners supporting their long-term care and rehoming.