A Duncannon woman is facing multiple animal cruelty and neglect charges after Pennsylvania State Police say she abandoned a dog and four cats inside a Girardville residence without proper care, resulting in severe neglect and the death of one cat.
According to court documents, Alicia Ann Rovin, 34, of Duncannon, was charged on January 29th, 2026, by State Police with cruelty to animals, multiple counts of neglect of animals, and abandoning a dog within the Commonwealth. The alleged offenses occurred on December 30, 2024, at a residence located at 100 North John Street in Girardville.
State Police were notified on January 3, 2025, after a concerned individual reported that animals may have been left behind after the occupants moved out of the home. Troopers responded and observed a dog inside the residence through a window, with no visible food or water bowls and no signs that the home was occupied.
Troopers determined Rovin was the last known occupant of the residence and contacted her by phone. According to the affidavit, Rovin stated she moved approximately four hours away on December 30 and claimed she left food and water for the dog, identified as “Bear.” She told police she had arranged for another individual to take possession of the dog, but later investigation determined that no such agreement had been made.
The landlord of the property reported finding the home in disarray and discovered one dog and four cats inside. He stated there was no food or water available for the animals and contacted Coal Mountain Animal Rescue for assistance.
Members of Coal Mountain Animal Rescue responded and reported that the animals appeared malnourished, neglected, and infested with fleas. One cat, later identified as “Percy,” was found with severe injuries and was transported to an emergency veterinary facility in Lancaster County.
Veterinary records reviewed by State Police indicated Percy suffered crushing chest injuries, multiple broken ribs, collapsed lungs, and severe tissue damage. Due to the severity of the injuries, the cat was humanely euthanized.
Troopers later entered the residence with animal rescue personnel and observed urine and feces throughout the home, a strong odor, and limited living conditions. The dog, Bear, was observed with visible ribs and an open, infected laceration on his ear. Three additional cats were found malnourished and flea-infested.
All surviving animals were transported for veterinary treatment. Medical records from Rush Veterinary Urgent Care documented that Bear and multiple cats were underweight and suffering from untreated medical conditions, including infections and flea infestations. Veterinary staff classified the cases as cruelty investigations.
Follow-up interviews and evidence, including veterinary documentation and social media images, were collected and entered into evidence. Investigators also interviewed a neighbor, who reported that the family had moved out around the Christmas holiday and that animals had been observed at the residence prior to their departure.
State Police later confirmed through interviews that no one had agreed to take custody of the animals, contradicting Rovin’s statements.
Rovin is charged with:- Cruelty to Animals (M2)
- Neglect of Animals — Sustenance/Water (Summary)
- Neglect of Animals — Veterinary Care (Summary)
- Abandonment of a Dog (Summary)