A seemingly benign image of animal rescue work took a significant turn this week when authorities executed search warrants at properties linked to the Pomona-based nonprofit Furget Me Not Purebred Cat Rescue. As part of an "animal welfare investigation," hundreds of live cats and numerous deceased animals were discovered across Claremont and Upland.
On Monday, officials searched a home and two commercial properties, uncovering a stark contrast to the organization's public persona. Nikole Bresciani, president and chief executive of the Inland Valley Humane Society & SPCA, reported that officers seized 405 live cats. In a more somber discovery, 28 dead cats were found in a freezer, and two others were buried in the backyard of a home, where additional animal bones were also recovered. Bresciani noted, "There's multiple animals that were buried back there, but we can't say for sure how many."
In addition to the deceased animals found on-site, 119 cremated animal remains were also seized. Most of these remains were located at the home and a commercial property in Claremont. The search also led to the seizure of four cats and nine dogs, though their specific location of retrieval was not disclosed. The Upland Police Department, which assisted animal services, stated in a written statement that "Credible information was received indicating that many of the cats were sick, malnourished and in need of medical attention."
Bresciani confirmed that these search warrants were the culmination of weeks of investigative work, coordinating with Upland authorities to ensure simultaneous execution for the safety of all animals. She also noted that she was unaware of any prior issues with the organization before the recent investigation.
The nonprofit was founded and operated by Ewa Hanna Konca, 59, who resides in Claremont. Public records indicated a growing financial trajectory for Furget Me Not Purebred Cat Rescue after its launch in either 2018 or 2019, with revenues rising from approximately $25,000 to nearly $160,000 by 2022. However, tax records show a steep decline in 2023, with revenues dropping by 77% to about $36,000. The organization's primary expenses were listed as supplies and medical costs.
Despite the underlying financial struggles and the conditions uncovered, the nonprofit's Facebook page presented a consistently positive image, displaying photos of adopted cats and seemingly clean facilities. Konca did not respond to multiple requests for comment, nor did the nonprofit.
Properties tied to the nonprofit include Konca's Claremont home and an office building in the Towne Center Drive area, just outside Claremont city limits. Konca also utilized the address of a medical plaza in Pomona to register a pet hotel and spa business. While investigators visited the Pomona location, a search warrant was not served there, though all business activities related to the nonprofit are part of the ongoing investigation.
Bresciani reflected on the unexpected nature of such discoveries in quiet neighborhoods. "If you were driving in the neighborhood, you would never know. It's not like their front yards or their properties are in disrepair; they're quiet neighbors," she said, adding that "what you find behind the scenes, behind closed doors, that’s a whole other matter." In this particular case, she concluded, "unfortunately, there were a lot of deceased animals on the property."
For those interested in assisting with the care and treatment of the seized animals, the Upland Police Department has directed individuals to contact Friends of Upland Animal Shelter at (909) 931-4185 or visit their website for donation information.
