In Rhode Island, there is a devastating situation that unfolded to the horror of many. Erica Bader, 24, was found deceased in the woods near Pawtucket. An ongoing investigation of 6 individuals possibly involved, including her roommate, is heartbreaking to hear. This poor young woman may have found comfort in the animals that surrounded her, adding more and more mouths to the overcrowded home. Those that would love her unconditionally. However, whatever her life had become, those animals were living in less than optimal conditions. No matter how much she loved them and had the best intentions for them. But now that she had been taken from this world, those animals were left behind to fend for themselves in the squalor. And it was 6 days after police had made arrests in her case that they discovered the neglected animals in the home.
Rhode Island Rescue
When the staff and volunteers at Rhode Island SPCA heard of the hoard, they jumped into action. It’s not known whether the animals “belonged” to Erica or her roommates. Regardless, there were 46 cats and 4 dogs living in the location with no food or water. Sadly, 3 felines were found deceased. Later one of the cats was discovered to be pregnant and gave birth to 4 kittens, bringing the total to 50 cats! Updates from local news channels were happily positive though. 
“It was horrendous conditions, but they came out fairly unscathed. They had pretty significant ear mites, one of them had an ear drum that had become affected,” said Olivia Warburton, the cat and small animal manager for Rhode Island SPCA. “It was definitely one of the largest in the last several [years] for this number of cats especially since we took all of them into the facility.”
“It’s in terrible condition. These animals didn’t have food and water, they have apparently been fed but the place is strewn with feces, and it reeks of ammonia, tough situation,” said Wayne Kezirian, the president of RISPCA. “In a situation where people accumulate large number of animals, they don’t seem to recognize that they’re over their head, which is common, and have a tremendous amount of feces to the point where we’re wearing masks and we’re uncomfortable when we’re in there.”
Photos: https://turnto10.com
Justice for Erica
Photos: https://turnto10.com
“I’m doing whatever I can to make sure that justice is served for what they have done for her,” said Crystal Smith, Erica’s stepmother. “I will not rest until I find out more. Hopefully we can get them to justice for what they’ve done to her.”
They’re especially frustrated with law enforcement, claiming they requested a well being check on her back in April.
“People who were supposed to be a part of her daily life, her home, her safety. Erica’s death is not just a tragedy, it’s a profound justice that demands accountability and change,” said one friend. “What happened to Erica is a reminder of the urgency to address the need of domestic and shared home violence. We call on investigators, prosecutors, and the entire justice system to handle this case with every seriousness and compassion it deserves.”
Photo: https://turnto10.com
“You were at that house multiple times after we sent you there to look for her, follow up,” said Wendy McCulough, a friend of Erica’s. “We know being here isn’t going to bring Erica back we’re hoping maybe being here a law can change on wellness checks or even if your friends see something, really say something.”
Now, protests and vigils were scheduled as the community is joining her family and friends in demanding justice too.
“We’re gathering to demand justice and accountability for the death of Erica Bader — a woman police knew for months was being beaten and held against her will yet failed to protect. Their inaction cost her life. We will not stay silent while those sworn to serve and protect ignore cries for help. Our community deserves answers, transparency, and change. Bring candles, signs, and your voice. Let’s stand together — peacefully, powerfully, and united — to say: No more silence. No more neglect. Justice for Erica Bader.”
Life Goes On
While Erica’s family and friends attempt to heal from this tragedy, the animals are also finding peace.
UPDATE: MANY OF THESE CATS HAVE BEEN ADOPTED ALREADY! PLEASE CHECK OUR WEBSITE TO SEE WHO IS STILL AVAILABLE! The first batch of cats from the recent hoarding case are officially available for adoption!
Photo: https://turnto10.com
Photo: RISPCA
You may submit an application beforehand at https://www.rispca.org/adoptable-cats or come in between those hours to meet them and fill out the application then. There are 9 of these guys available, but we have some cats who have been up for adoption for awhile that deserve some love too
And don’t worry if you miss out on this round, there’s 30+ more where that came from!
