Charleroi man charged after more than 20 cats found dead in West Newton home

West Newton police charged Charleroi resident Jonathan Hodgetts with aggravated cruelty to animals, cruelty and neglect after a homeowner discovered more than 20 cats deceased and in various stages of decomposition inside a North 2nd Street residence. The homeowner said she had left Hodgetts caring for 21 cats and that he had sent photos and assurances the animals were fine; a veterinarian necropsy determined the cats died of starvation. Hodgetts faces criminal charges and, as with all pending matters, is presumed innocent until proven guilty.