White County Animal Control has turned over an animal welfare case to the White County Sheriff’s Office for investigation.
David Murphy, White County Public Safety Director, said in an email update Wednesday afternoon that due to the developing case involving the caretakers and the condition of the animals, Animal Control turned over the cruelty investigation to the White County Sheriff’s Office.
Murphy said Animal Control officers will continue to work with the Sheriff’s Office on the case.
The incident involves an investigation by White County Animal Control on Sunday at 206 Hiawassee Lane. Authorities were called to check the welfare of animals after the homeowner reported damage to the property. Animal Control found cats and dogs which appeared to have been with no food or water for an undetermined amount of time. Some kittens were deceased inside the residence and the property owner located a deceased cat on the back patio of the residence.
Animal Control on Tuesday impounded animals from the site and continued at last report to trap other animals.
According to information released earlier by Murphy, the property owners had moved out of state and had contracted with the two individuals to look after their animals and property in exchange for staying at their home.
All of the animals have been turned over to the local pound,
