Rochester Resident Facing Charges for Kittens Abandoned in Dumpster

Fairport, N.Y. (March 21, 2024) – On Friday, March 15, 2024, a Lollypop Farm Humane Law Enforcement officer arrested Rochester resident Stephanie Rivers (66) for the misdemeanor offense of failure to provide sustenance under Section 353 as well as the abandonment of animals under Section 355 of the Agriculture and Markets Law of the State of New York.

On March 12th, Lollypop Farm Humane Law Enforcement was dispatched by 911 to the Rochester Highlands apartment complex in the City of Rochester after a call was placed for kittens found abandoned inside a dumpster.

The kittens were discovered after witnesses heard cries from the dumpster. The six kittens were tied in a large black garbage bag also containing water. After speaking with witnesses and the suspect, Rivers admitted to leaving the cats in the dumpster.

Rivers faces up to a year in jail and/or a $1,000 fine for the misdemeanor charge and will appear in Rochester City Court on April 2, 2024.

The kittens are currently in foster care through Lollypop Farm. Unfortunately, one kitten passed away. The remaining five are currently being bottle-fed while they continue to grow and build strength. They will become available for adoption once they are strong enough to receive full vaccinations and spay/neuter surgery.

Lollypop Farm maintains an SPCA designation, and its Humane Law Enforcement Department is charged with investigating and enforcing the animal cruelty laws of New York State. Serving Monroe, Orleans, Livingston, and Genesee counties, Lollypop Farm plays a critical role in addressing animal cruelty in the community. Lollypop Farm humane law enforcement officers are certified state peace officers with the authority to conduct investigations, make arrests, and seize animals facing immediate danger. Lollypop Farm’s Humane Law Enforcement Department is not a municipality and is funded almost exclusively through community support.

To report suspected animal cruelty, call the Lollypop Farm Animal Cruelty Hotline at 585-223-6500 or 911 for immediate life-threatening situations.

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About Lollypop Farm, Humane Society of Greater Rochester
Established in 1873, Lollypop Farm is the largest animal welfare organization helping pets and people in the Greater Rochester area. Together with the community, the organization betters the lives of animals through justice, prevention, and life-saving care. With a main campus in Fairport, the organization provides shelter, care, and adoption for dogs, cats, small animals, birds, reptiles, horses, and other farm animals. Lollypop Farm is an independent nonprofit organization supported through contributions, grants, investments, proceeds from retail sales, and fees for programs and services. For more information and to meet adoptable animals, please visit www.lollypop.org.

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Media Contact:
Nikkie Wargo-Catallo
(585) 223-1330 ex. 271
email