MT. VERNON (WSIL) -- A Jefferson County resident is mulling his future after a fire destroyed his home .
Owner David Pocrnich wasn't home at the time and around 30 animals trapped inside didn't make it out.
"I still have other animals that are alive," Pocrnich said. "That's my life, to take care of these rescued animals that no one else wanted.
Pocrnich bought the home in January at a tax auction for $825. Since then he's been fixing it up, while rescuing animals and keeping some of them inside.
Pocrnich says some neighbors complained about the condition of his home for the past two months. Some of the complaints, Pocrnich says, escalated into threats.
"I don't want to regress back and take the law into my own hands," Pocrnich said. "I've asked for police protection and they stood by and didn't do anything."
Sheriff Jeff Bullard tells News 3 Pocrnich was involved in an ongoing property line dispute and offered Pocrnich advise on how to properly handle it.
Pocrnich said some of the animals are alive thanks to one neighbor who ran from their home and opened a fence with animals inside. He's also received help from local churches as well. Pocrnich believes the fire was intentional.
"It was arson for sure," Pocrnich said. "I just hope the arsonists get caught. I hope whatever karma is will get them for what they've done."
Bullard said sheriff's office called an arson investigator to look into the fire. The state fire marshal is still investigating.
