26 charges filed in animal neglect case
NEILLSVILLE — A 53-year-old woman accused of neglecting dozens of animals has been charged with 26 misdemeanor counts in Clark County Circuit Court.
If convicted, Carolyn M. Christie faces a maximum of nine months in jail and a $10,000 fine on each of the 26 charges. Christie is scheduled to make her first court appearance in the case Wednesday.
On Sept. 11, Clark County District Attorney Lyndsey Brunette filed 10 counts of intentionally mistreating animals, four counts of providing an animal shelter with improper ventilation, six counts of providing an animal shelter with improper sanitation, four counts failure to provide proper food for an animal and two counts failure to provide shelter from the sun for an animal.
43 dogs, 6 horses seized in Clark County
On Aug. 16, the Clark County Sheriff's Department responded to a report of animals loose at N4139 Marg Ave. in the town of Pine Valley, according to police. Deputies found several animals without food or water in the sweltering heat and humidity. Officers notified the Clark County Humane Society of the conditions.
When authorities searched the home, basement and barn areas of the property, they found dogs living in deplorable conditions, according to police. An overwhelming ammonia odor emanated from inside the residence. The animals suffered from flea bites, bad dental care, ingrown nails and poor nutrition.
Authorities seized 43 dogs and six horses from the Pine Valley residence.