Two Tecumseh men are facing animal cruelty charges after a five month investigation into alleged abuse and neglect at a Manning Road farm.
The Windsor/Essex County Humane Society has charged John Holland with one count of causing distress to an animal, four counts of permitting distress, and three counts of failing to comply with prescribed standards of care for animals.
“It was a gruesome situation, very disturbing," says Melanie Coulter, humane society executive director.
The shelter says the charges relate to three horses, two ducks, 14 pigs, six sheep, 12 rabbits, and 10 chickens. The two ducks, two sheep, and 10 pigs were found dead on the farm, along with one pig in such severe distress that he had to be immediately euthanized.
One horse was also seized for urgent medical reasons and two horses, 12 rabbits, three pigs, four sheep, and 10 chickens were seized due to an ongoing lack of food.
“It's been a rough investigation,” says Coulter. “Especially the situation with pigs. So many had died. The remaining were so malnourished they had no alternative, but to eat remains of those who had died.”
Eddie Blake was also charged with one count of causing distress to an animal, one count of permitting distress and two counts of failing to comply with prescribed standards of care for animals.
Each of the charges carries a maximum sentence of two years in prison or a $60,000 fine. Both men are scheduled to make their first court appearance on July 19 at 9 a.m.
The humane society says the three horses seized along with three pigs have recovered and are currently available for adoption.
