ROANOKE, VA – March, 2025 — Two individuals associated with a local animal rescue nonprofit have been arrested and charged with felony animal neglect following a disturbing discovery at a Roanoke residence doubling as a shelter.
The Roanoke Police Department’s Animal Warden Unit executed a search warrant at a home on the 1400 block of Peters Creek Road NW on Wednesday, March 19, uncovering what authorities described as dire conditions. A total of 47 cats were found inside the property. Two were deceased, seven were in such critical condition they required emergency veterinary care, and the remaining 36 were transported to regional animal welfare partners for further evaluation and treatment.
Kayla Willis Campbell, 34, and Ian James Yeager, 46, were arrested and charged with two counts each of Felony Animal Neglect. Both individuals are listed as the owner and director of the non-profit Nomadic Paws Kitten Rescue, which has operated in the Roanoke and Vinton areas.
The investigation began on March 13 when the Animal Warden Unit received a tip regarding possible neglect at the rescue. Officers visited the Peters Creek Road address to conduct a welfare check but were denied entry by Campbell and Yeager. Days later, the rescue posted a video to its social media accounts showing the interior conditions and the cats living inside, prompting further concern and strengthening the case for a search warrant.
This is not the first troubling incident linked to the organization. On New Year’s Eve 2024, a property on Foxland Avenue in Vinton, also associated with Nomadic Paws, caught fire. That residence also reportedly housed rescue cats.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities say more charges may be possible depending on veterinary assessments and additional findings.
The 36 surviving cats are currently in the care of area shelters and rescues, and local officials say they will be evaluated individually to determine future placement.
If you suspect animal neglect or abuse in your area, please contact your local Animal Control or Police Department.