In Charleston County, South Carolina, a 47-year-old man, Harry Brown Jr., was arrested on animal cruelty charges after authorities seized five dogs from his property. The dogs were found in poor condition, suffering from neglect and malnourishment. Brown was charged with five counts of ill treatment of animals following an investigation initiated by a concerned citizen’s tip. This case highlights the commitment of local authorities to protect animals from neglect and abuse.
The Discovery of Abuse
On June 6, 2023, deputies from the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Unit responded to a call regarding potential animal abuse at a residence on Royal Harbor Road. The caller had expressed concern that the dogs on the property were in danger.
Upon arriving at the scene, deputies found the dogs in deplorable conditions. One dog was found tethered to a tree, and the remaining four dogs were confined to chain-link kennels. All five dogs were emaciated, lacking access to food and water, and showing clear signs of neglect.
Given the severity of the situation, a judge immediately signed a seizure order, and the dogs were removed from the property. They were taken to the Charleston Animal Society for evaluation and medical treatment.
The Condition of the Dogs
Veterinarians at the Charleston Animal Society conducted thorough examinations of the five dogs, uncovering several serious health issues. The dogs were found to be suffering from a variety of ailments, including:
Heartworm
Hookworms
Dehydration
Anemia
Scars and torn lips
One of the dogs required emergency surgery due to its condition. The shelter’s Vice President and COO, Aldwin Roman, CAWA, reported that the dogs had visible signs of neglect, including exposed rib cages and spines. Their body condition scores were as low as two when they should have been between four and five.
Harry Brown Jr.’s Arrest and Charges
After the seizure, authorities identified Harry Brown Jr. as the owner of the animals. On July 22, 2023, Brown was arrested and charged with five counts of animal cruelty for the ill treatment of the dogs. He was released from the Al Cannon Detention Center after posting a $25,000 bond.
In a statement, Charleston County Sheriff Carl Ritchie emphasized the importance of reporting animal abuse: “We are committed to investigating and pursuing cases of neglect and cruelty across Charleston County. If you see something, please say something and call your local law enforcement agency.”
The Fate of the Dogs
Following their rescue, the dogs were treated at the Charleston Animal Society. Four of the dogs were eventually deemed adoptable and were placed with new families. Unfortunately, one dog was too aggressive to be adopted and had to be humanely euthanized.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting animals and holding those responsible for abuse accountable for their actions.
The arrest of Harry Brown Jr. and the rescue of the five dogs highlight the ongoing issue of animal cruelty and the need for vigilance in protecting vulnerable animals. Thanks to the actions of concerned citizens and the efforts of law enforcement, the dogs involved in this case received the care and attention they needed. This case also serves as a warning to anyone who abuses or neglects animals that they will face legal consequences.
