A Harlan man faces more than 50 charges involving dead and neglected animals. Fifty-five-year old Darvin Lund was released from custody after posting $1300 bond.
An investigation into the animals’ welfare by Shelby County Sheriff’s officials and the Shelby County Environmental Health Department resulted in the discovery of about 40 dead sheep on Lund’s property in Harlan.
Twelve other sheep carcasses were in a state of decomposition. Several other animals were in need of food and water. Sheriff’s deputies also observed several sheep owned by Lund, at a second property in Harlan, that also lacked food and water. About 40 sheep carcasses were found on the second property as well.
The charges of failure to dispose of dead animals is a serious misdemeanor, while animal neglect/failure to provide food and water is considered simple misdemeanor.