An investigation is underway in Lee County after authorities discovered a large number of animals living in poor conditions on rural property.
According to the Lee County Sheriff’s Department, the situation came to light after deputies responded to a report of a dog attack in the Plantersville area on Monday. Lee County Sheriff Jim Johnson said that a resident reported that dogs entered her yard and attacked another dog. The attack prompted her to contact Lee County Animal Control.
After further investigation, animal control officers obtained an animal pickup order for the property. When they arrived, officials found between 40 and 50 dogs living in unsanitary conditions. As the search expanded, authorities determined there were approximately 200 dogs and one horse on the property.
While officials said many of the animals appeared to be in fair physical condition, the overall living environment was deemed “inadequate and not conducive to proper animal welfare.” Several dogs have already been removed, and efforts are ongoing to relocate the remaining animals to appropriate care facilities.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Department Criminal Investigation Division is now handling the case. Officials say the investigation is active, and criminal charges are possible depending on the outcome.
More information is expected to be released as authorities continue their work.