The Barton County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a case of animal cruelty.
On Thursday, the sheriff assisted the Golden Belt Humane Society and the Barton County Health Department in the execution of a search warrant. The two organizations had been investigating a case of animal cruelty and maintaining a public nuisance in the 400 block of North East 110 Avenue.
Upon entering the home, excessive quantities of feces and extremely unsanitary conditions were observed.
Twenty cats, four dogs and two chickens were removed from inside the home. Another 10 cats, two dogs, a horse, and a donkey were found outside. A decaying horse carcass was also found in a barn. It had been there for several months.
All the animals were taken to the Golden Belt Humane Society to be examined by a veterinarian. Many of the animals showed signs of neglect or poor health. The home was deemed to be unlivable.
The sheriff said in a news release that 63-year-old Cletus Wolford of Ellinwood was taken into custody on suspicion of cruelty to animals, maintaining a public nuisance and obstruction of officers. He is being held in lieu of a $2,500 bond.
