Animals, Weapons Seized From Harwich House

EAST HARWICH – Police and animal welfare officials seized more than 20 animals from a house at 908 Queen Anne Rd. last 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. On Monday, a spokesperson for the organization said he expects additional information to be released soon.

While the search warrant for the animals was being executed, Harwich Police officers – who were there to assist – allegedly retrieved about 15 firearms from the building.

“We are expecting to bring charges against one of the residents,” Police Chief Kevin Considine said Monday.

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