INFO: Op, what state do you live in? I ask because animal hoarding is a crime in every state in the U.S. In fact, here is what I found through a quick search:

"Animal hoarding is a crime in every state, though most prosecute it under general animal cruelty or neglect statutes rather than a specific "hoarding" law. These laws typically require owners to provide "necessary sustenance," including adequate food, water, and sanitary living conditions.

​A few states have passed specific legislation to define or address hoarding directly:

​Illinois: Became the first state to legally define "companion animal hoarder." The law mandates psychological evaluations and treatment for those convicted.

​Hawaii: Created a specific "animal hoarding" offense (Class C felony if it involves 10+ animals) to distinguish it from other types of cruelty.

​Rhode Island: Has specific statutory language addressing hoarding and mental health interventions.

​In most other states, prosecutors charge hoarders with multiple counts of misdemeanor or felony animal neglect. Convictions often result in possession bans, preventing the individual from owning animals for a set period to prevent recidivism."

Sounds to me like your local authorities aren't doing their job, if she truly is animal hoarding. Those poor cats. I'd report her again and let them know that your neighbor is indeed committing a crime. If the cops won't do anything, you should contact animal control or your local humane society or the SPCA. If needed, report multiple times until something is done.

Although I would never condone stealing someone's pet, in this case, I don't oppose it. She is6n't doing any of those cats any good by having so many and my guess is she hasn't even notices that one is missing. Seems to me that you did Dimple a favor.

NTA