APD Charges Suspect with Multiple Counts of Animal Cruelty Following Investigation in South Austin

Case: 26-0360994

Date: February 5, 2026

Time: 5:22 p.m.

Location: 10101 South 1st Street

Arrested: Nayzak Najm, Asian female, 27 years of age
 

The Austin Police (APD) Animal Cruelty Unit has filed 13 Class A misdemeanor charges for Cruelty to Non-Livestock Animals (Abandonment) against 27-year-old Nayzak Najm in connection with an animal cruelty investigation in South Austin.

On February 5, 2026, at approximately 5:22 p.m., APD officers responded to a 911 call from a concerned resident at an apartment complex located at 10101 S. 1st Street. The caller reported multiple malnourished cats inside a neighboring unit that appeared to be living in unsanitary and unsafe conditions.

Officers contacted apartment management, who confirmed that the former tenant, identified as Nayzak Najm, had vacated the unit in mid-January 2026 after turning in her keys. The lease officially expired on January 31, 2026. Management had entered the unit to begin restoration efforts following prior flooding issues when the animals were discovered.

Upon entry, responding officers observed conditions consistent with a hoarding environment, including significant debris, standing water, and widespread animal waste. A total of 15 cats were located inside the apartment. Of those, 12 were found alive but in varying states of malnourishment. One cat was found in critical condition and transported to an emergency veterinary clinic, where euthanasia was recommended due to the severity of its condition.

Two additional cats were found deceased inside the unit. Evidence at the scene indicated the remains had been partially consumed by surviving animals. The cause of death for the deceased cats could not be determined.

The surviving cats were removed from the apartment by animal control and transported for evaluation and care.

The investigation determined that Najm had abandoned the animals when she vacated the apartment, leaving them without adequate food, water, or care. Based on the evidence, APD Animal Cruelty Detectives filed 13 Class A misdemeanor charges, corresponding to 13 surviving cats associated with the case. Charges were not filed in relation to the two deceased cats due to the inability to determine their cause of death. Arrest warrants have been issued and approved by a municipal court judge.

APD reminds the community that abandoning animals is both illegal and inhumane. If individuals are unable to care for their animals, there are safe and responsible alternatives available, including contacting local animal shelters, rescue organizations, or seeking assistance from veterinary providers. Reaching out for help can ensure animals are placed in safe environments and receive the care they need.