UPDATE: An animal rescue in Hamburg, New York, is on high alert following an alleged break-in attempt caught on camera early Saturday morning, August 5, 2023. The **Ten Lives Club**, known for cat rescue and adoption, is urgently seeking community assistance to bolster security measures after the frightening incident.
Founder and executive director Marie Edwards was notified via her **Blink Camera** application while she was out of town. “I was appalled,” she stated, describing the horrifying moment she watched the footage. The surveillance video shows a group of four individuals, some masked, attempting to enter the rescue’s premises.
According to Edwards, the suspects, believed to be aged between **18 and 20**, not only targeted Ten Lives Club but also attempted to break into a neighboring abandoned building. “We’re in negotiations to purchase it right now,” said Edwards, emphasizing the urgency to secure the property for expanding their services. “We don’t need any damage or anything broken or our animals hurt.”
The attempted break-in has left the rescue community shaken. Kelly Sinclair, community development manager, expressed her disappointment: “The fact that someone would try to break in and possibly jeopardize the well-being of our cats is just heartbreaking.”
Fortunately, the suspects were unsuccessful in entering the building; however, they destroyed two cameras in the process. Edwards is hopeful that the footage capturing their faces will aid local law enforcement. “They reached up to one of the cameras and tried to take it down,” she explained.
In response to the incident, Ten Lives Club is stepping up security measures immediately. “We have someone going over to put up boards on all of the windows,” Edwards detailed. Additionally, the rescue has acquired a stadium light to illuminate the area at night. “Our staff is on high alert, ensuring everything is checked before leaving,” she added.
The rescue is also seeking donations for an upgraded camera system to enhance security. Community members are encouraged to assist in protecting the shelter and its vulnerable residents. Anyone with information regarding the incident or who recognizes the individuals in the footage is urged to contact the **Hamburg Police Department** at **716-364-2035**.
This alarming event highlights the risks faced by local rescues and the critical need for community support to safeguard their operations and the animals they care for. Stay tuned for further developments as authorities investigate this disturbing incident.
