Investigators have taken a man into custody for what they call the worst case of animal abuse they've ever seen.

Anthony Appolonia, 49, allegedly brought kittens home only to kill them. Investigators believe he would respond to ads offering free kitten adoptions, take the cats home and then strangle or drown the animals before tossing them in a dumpster.

Monmouth County SPCA Chief Buddy Amato says he has taken a sworn statement in which Appolonia admits to the feline killings. According to Amato, Appolonia was motivated by power and anger.

Officials say Appolonia killed at least 14 cats, but they fear his death count may be much higher.