GARLAND COUNTY, Ark. (KTHV) - 28 cats were found deceased and 11 taken to a vet for treatment after a house fire Monday morning on North Gate.

According to the report by the Garland County Sheriff's Department, Animal Services received their first complaint about the home in spring of 2010 in reference to animals being abandoned. Authorities say the portion of the residence was cleaned up and Animal Services thought the problem was resolved.

After another complaint earlier this month, Animal Services gave the homeowner a Monday deadline to have the home cleaned. Instead, firefighters were called to the home. When the fire was out, authorities found the cats.

Authorities have not released the name of the homeowner or the cause of the fire.

We're told that while the case is still under investigation, charges being considered are cruelty to animals or animal neglect. Lt. James Martin says the suspect is an employee of the Garland County detention center.

Authorities say the case will be presented to the prosecutor for determination of charges.