A West Point man was charged with three counts of animal cruelty, after authorities found dogs at the suspect’s home so underfed their ribs were showing.
Clay County deputies arrested Komarcus Powell, 22, on Tuesday after they executed a search warrant at a home on Highway 50 West, according to a Clay County Sheriff’s Office press release. Deputies also removed six dogs and two cats from the residence.
Employees with West Point/Clay County Animal Shelter assisted with the investigation, the release said.
Sheriff Eddie Scott said the charges are misdemeanors, though it may be upgraded to a felony if he is charged with further counts of animal cruelty.
He stressed the investigation is ongoing. Three of the dogs in particular were in such bad shape that authorities worried they would die if they didn’t go ahead and get them out of the house Tuesday.
“Our main concern was to get the dogs in our possession so we could get them treated,” he said.
Investigators are asking anyone with information on the case to call CCSO at 662-494-2896 or Golden Triangle Crime Stoppers at 800-530-7151.
Powell has been released from Clay County Jail after posting $3,548.25 bond.
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