BRATTLEBORO, VT (MyKeeneNow) Two people are facing animal cruelty charges after police say several cats and a dog were removed from a Brattleboro residence where investigators found unsanitary living conditions.

According to the Brattleboro Police Department, officers were called to a home belonging to Matthew L. Plantikow, 54, of Brattleboro, for a welfare check on Oct. 16.

During the response, Officer Z. Lopez observed conditions inside the residence that raised concerns about the well-being of the animals living there. Police described the conditions as sufficiently unsanitary that they could constitute cruelty to the animals.

Animal Control Officer Brechner subsequently conducted an investigation into the animals’ living environment and health. Several cats and one dog were taken from the residence.

At the conclusion of the investigation, Plantikow was issued a citation for cruelty to animals and released.

Investigators also identified Monica Lankton, 50, of Manchester, New Hampshire, as having responsibility for the animals. Police allege that Lankton allowed the animals to remain in the conditions found at the residence. She was later located and issued a citation on the same charge.

Plantikow and Lankton are scheduled to appear in Vermont Superior Court’s Windham County Criminal Division on Dec. 1.

The Brattleboro Police Department reminds the public that anyone arrested or cited is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.