COLLETON COUNTY, S.C. (WCSC) – Colleton County Animal Services, Colleton County Sheriff’s Office and Cottageville PD conducted an animal abuse investigation and were able to rescue 22 animals from a property.
Colleton County Animal Services received a call on Wednesday about a residence on Running Creek Lane in Cottageville and were told that animals were believed to be there but no one had been seen at the property for several days, according to the Colleton County Sheriff’s Office.
Animal Control Officers reported a strong odor from the driveway when they arrived. Officers then looked through a window and saw four live dogs and several dead animals in a room filled with cages.
Colleton County Animal Service officers obtained a search warrant and entered the residence with the help of Cottageville Police Chief Mitchell and a detective from the Colleton County Sheriff’s Office.
Officials seized 22 animals from the property that were being held in deplorable conditions.
“All of the animals now have a chance at loving homes and are receiving the care they deserve,” said Director Laura Clark from Colleton County Animal Services. “We are grateful for the swift and coordinated efforts of the Sheriff’s Office, Cottageville PD, and our rescue partners to ensure the wellbeing of these animals.”
Anyone is urged to contact Colleton County Animal Services at 843-893-2651 if their pet has been missing. A person admitted to picking up some of the animals as strays.
This case is ongoing and criminal charges are expected after further evidence has been processed.
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