A 22-year-old Chicago resident, Thomas Martel, is facing multiple felony charges related to animal cruelty after surrendering to authorities on Monday. The arrest follows a complaint filed by a woman alleging Martel's involvement in the torture and deaths of several cats.

According to reports from FOX Chicago, Martel is accused of horrific acts of violence against the animals, including drowning and squeezing two cats to death, mutilating another, and allegedly microwaving a kitten. Police discovered the deceased kitten in a plastic bag at Martel's residence. Disturbingly, each of the deceased kittens was reportedly named Shelly.

Martel is currently facing four counts of aggravated cruelty to animals and two counts of animal torture. An arrest report suggests Martel has a history of mental health struggles and takes prescribed medications.

This incident comes amidst rising concerns about animal welfare in urban areas and underscores the importance of addressing mental health issues.