Animals, Weapons Seized From Harwich House

EAST HARWICH – Police and animal welfare officials seized more than 20 animals from a house on Queen Anne Road Thursday after officers from the Animal Rescue League (ARL) of Boston’s law enforcement arm executed a search warrant there.

With help from the animal control officers from Harwich and Dennis, ARL officials removed over 20 animals of different species from the house, which is located near Route 39. The animals included kittens, a dog, ferrets, rats, lizards and others, according to one law enforcement source.

“The animals are in need of various levels of care and our veterinary and shelter staff are working to ensure they are all well cared for and safe,” reads a statement from the ARL. Additional details were not provided.

While the search warrant for the animals was being executed, Harwich Police officers – who were there to assist – allegedly retrieved more than a dozen weapons from the building. Charges may be forthcoming, police say.

Officers were at the scene for around four hours Thursday morning and early afternoon.

This is a developing story.