FLORENCE, Ky.— Annette Powell, a 47-year-old resident of Florence, is facing a staggering 26 ordinance violations related to the conditions in her car, where she lives with her 13 cats. The charges, which include issues with outdated vaccines and improper living conditions for the animals, highlight significant gaps in the support available for individuals facing severe financial and housing crises.
Powell, who has been living in her vehicle since April, is currently parked under a tree near a local baseball stadium. Her SUV is equipped with basic necessities, including a fan and water jugs. Despite these provisions, her car is also home to a litter box and her beloved cats, who have become an integral part of her life during this challenging period.
“I won’t give up my animals,” Powell said tearfully. “Everything we have left in the world is here.”
In response to the violations, Boone County Animal Control officers have charged Powell with multiple infractions. The agency had previously attempted to assist Powell by offering housing options, but her inability to find suitable accommodation for her cats has complicated the situation.
Colleen Bray, head of Boone County Animal Control, emphasized the difficulties in finding housing solutions for individuals with multiple pets. “We always start out trying to assist and get resources to any individual that is having an issue with their pet,” Bray explained. “Unfortunately, the more animals they have, the more limited the housing options become.”
When Powell appeared in court to address the charges, she requested a public defender, but her request was denied. Eric K. Van Santen, directing attorney for the Department of Public Advocacy, noted that while judges can appoint public defenders for ordinance violation cases, such appointments are rare, especially when the penalties do not include jail time.
“It can be very confusing,” Van Santen said. “In this situation, having an attorney would significantly benefit her rather than navigating the system alone.”
Marcia Ziegler, an assistant professor of law at Northern Kentucky University, criticized the current system’s inability to effectively address Powell’s broader needs. “The court may be able to remove the animals, but it doesn’t put a roof over her head,” Ziegler said. “It’s a sad situation the system doesn’t address very well.”
Powell remains resolute about keeping her cats and expresses deep frustration with her current circumstances. “We’re not dirt,” she said. “We were one paycheck away from stability, and now we’re trying to find a way to pull ourselves out of this.”
Scheduled to return to court in September, Powell faces the possibility of fines that she fears she will struggle to pay. Despite her efforts to remain hopeful, she admits to being terrified about her future.
“I try to be hopeful, but I’m scared,” Powell confessed through tears.
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