NATCHEZ – A Natchez man faces 35 misdemeanor animal cruelty charges after deputies found dozens of animals without adequate food or water at an Adams County residence. ac
The Adams County Sheriff’s Office began investigating July 15 after a concerned citizen called 911 to report suspected animal abuse and neglect at a home on Lily Lane.
Deputies found dogs, a horse, a donkey, goats, chickens and a rabbit on the property. Investigators documented 34 animals and said all appeared to be without access to food or water. Many were described as severely malnourished.
Deputies immediately began providing food and water while investigators responded to document the conditions.
Authorities identified the animals’ owner as Jaramy Zevon Johnson, 38, of Natchez.
Investigators obtained arrest affidavits July 16 charging Johnson with 14 counts of simple cruelty to a cat or dog and 20 counts of confining animals without food or water.
A court-authorized seizure warrant was executed Tuesday by the sheriff’s office, Animal Rescue Corps and Dr. Hickman of Natchez Veterinary Clinic.
During the operation, investigators found an additional dog concealed in a nearby wooded area. Authorities said the dog was severely malnourished and had no food or water.
The discovery brought the total number of dogs rescued to 15 and resulted in an additional charge of simple cruelty to a cat or dog.
All 15 dogs were removed and taken for veterinary evaluation and treatment. Animal Rescue Corps coordinated the rescue and covered the costs associated with the animals’ seizure and care, according to the sheriff’s office.
Johnson was arrested Tuesday and booked into the Adams County Jail. He now faces 15 counts of simple cruelty to a cat or dog and 20 counts of confining animals without food or water.
Investigators also learned that livestock previously seen at the property had been removed after Johnson was allegedly told not to relocate any animals during the investigation.
Sheriff Travis Patten called it one of the most disturbing animal neglect cases his investigators had encountered and credited the citizen who reported the conditions.
“Because someone was willing to speak up, these animals were rescued from extremely poor conditions and are now receiving the care and compassion they deserve,” Patten said.
The investigation remains active, and additional charges are possible.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Adams County Sheriff’s Office at 601-442-2752 or Southwest Mississippi Crime Stoppers at 1-888-442-5001.
