WEST BEND – More than 400 animals had to be removed from a West Bend home Friday.
West Bend Police say more than 250 mice, 160 snakes (ranging from 6 inches to 2 feet in length), several Dart Frogs and Gecko’s were removed from the home – located at 230 S. Indiana Ave.
According to the West Bend Police Department, the discovery was made when West Bend and East Troy police were investigating a false imprisonment and sexual assault that occurred in both of their jurisdictions.
While they were investigating at the West Bend home, police say their officers noticed a foul odor coming from the basement. The officers investigated and found numerous snakes, mice, and other small reptiles in the basement. Police say several of the animals were in poor health, and several dead snakes and mice were also removed.
"I'm shocked someone would have 160 snakes," said neighbor Jessica Bartley.
"Wow! I never thought one person could hold so many animals in one place," said neighbor Brad Aylesworth. "Once they took the animals out, the truck smelled."
Neighbors took cell phone video showing city workers removing all the reptiles.
A 42-year-old man was arrested and now faces several criminal charges and civil code violations.
