A woman accused of repeatedly neglecting animals over several years has been sentenced to four years in prison after authorities discovered dozens of animals living in distressing conditions inside her home.

Shayna Burko, 30, of Newburgh, Indiana, received the maximum sentence allowed under state law after pleading guilty but mentally ill to three felony counts of animal neglect.

The sentencing marks the latest chapter in a case that has drawn widespread attention from animal welfare advocates, many of whom packed the courtroom to witness the outcome.

Investigators previously found nearly 40 animals inside Burko’s property, including dogs, turtles and gerbils. According to prosecutors, some of the animals were still confined inside shipping boxes when authorities arrived.

Officials said the case was not an isolated incident.

Court records revealed Burko had been linked to animal hoarding cases dating back to 2016 and had continued acquiring animals despite previous convictions and repeated interventions aimed at preventing further neglect.

Prosecutors argued that multiple opportunities had been given over the years, but the situation continued to repeat itself.

“This was not a one-time mistake,” prosecutors told the court, describing a pattern of behavior that allegedly resulted in numerous animals being left without proper care.

Animal advocates described the sentence as a significant victory for vulnerable animals that depend entirely on human care.

Many supporters became emotional as the judge handed down the four-year prison term, saying they hoped the decision would send a strong message about accountability in serious animal neglect cases.

In addition to the prison sentence, Burko was ordered to pay more than $8,000 in restitution connected to the case.

Advocates are now calling for stronger statewide protections, including proposals for a registry that would prevent individuals convicted of serious animal abuse or neglect offenses from adopting or obtaining pets in the future.

For many members of the community, the ruling represents long-awaited justice for dozens of animals whose welfare depended on responsible care.

While supporters acknowledge that no sentence can undo the suffering experienced by the animals involved, they hope the case will encourage stronger safeguards and help prevent similar situations from occurring again.

“This is about protecting animals who cannot speak for themselves,” one advocate said outside the courtroom. “We hope this decision helps ensure fewer animals face these circumstances in the future.”