Neglected animals seized by county

LA GRANGE -- Fayette County Sheriff Keith Korenek reports that the Sheriff’s Office received a report of animals that were not being properly cared for Jan. 24.  Deputy Marc Bennett received information that there were several horses not being fed at a location on Country Way Road located near Smithville in Fayette County. 

Once the incident was investigated Deputy Bennett located 8 horses, 3 calves, and 4 dogs which were being neglected.  A warrant was applied for and received from JP #1 Scott Parker, which gave the Sheriff’s Office the authority to take the animals and hold them until a hearing can be held to determine disposition of the animals. 

The horses and calves were in very poor condition, and are now being held and taken care of at the Flatonia Auction Barn and the dogs are being held at the Fayette County Animal Shelter.  Cruelty to animal Charges are pending on the owner at this time.  Cruelty to an animal is a Class A misdemeanor which if convicted the owner could face a fine up to $4,000.00, confinement in jail up to a year, or both fine and jail time.