RISPCA rescue 15 cats, one dog, warrant issued for property owner, reward offered

Police are looking for a suspect believed to be involved in animal mistreatment.

According to RISPCA, on Friday, June 19, the Rhode Island SPCA, with the assistance of the Rhode Island State Police, Rhode Island State Veterinarian, and North Smithfield Animal Control, executed a search warrant at Doggie Styles Pet Spas, located at 21 Sayles Hill Road in North Smithfield.

The search warrant was secured based on an affidavit alleging the presence of several animals in the building that had been without adequate care for several days. Upon arrival and further investigation, the Rhode Island SPCA confirmed the presence of fifteen cats and one dog. The cats were found in a communal living environment with litter boxes overflowing with feces. Due to the high ammonia content in the room, caused by the accumulation of urine, the air quality was an immediate hazard to humans and animals. The one dog at the location was found secured in a kennel with accumulated feces and urine, as well as found to be lacking access to food and water.

All animals were secured and returned to the Rhode Island SPCA, where they were immediately examined by a veterinarian and provided adequate care. None of the animals are currently available for adoption.

There is currently an active arrest warrant for the owner of the animals, identified as 55-year-old John Froais. The Rhode Island SPCA is offering a $500 reward for any information leading to the location and subsequent arrest of Froais. For any information, contact Rhode Island Special Agent Earl Newman at the Rhode Island SPCA at 401-438-8150 ext 2.