MISSOURI -- Investigators say they have witnessed animals being “starved to death” at a residence just north of Vienna on Highway 63. Maries County police were following up on a report of animal abuse when they say they found many animals without food or water.
Investigators applied for a search warrant and served it on the morning of September 27th. They found malnourished dogs, goats, pigs, cows, and horses. There were also at least six horse remains and numerous cow and pig remains.
Many of the animals have been seized by police and are in “need of immediate medical attention”. A total of 40 animals have been seized. More may be taken in protective custody at a later date.
Missouri State Animal Investigators, police and the Humane Society are from the Department of Agriculture are working on this case.
The owner of the property has not been charged at this time. He may be facing numerous counts of animal neglect, and improper disposal of animal remains. He is due in Maries County Associate court this Tuesday at 11am for an animal disposition hearing. His name will not be released until criminal charges have been filed.
(KTVI - Sept 27, 2012)
