A Highland Home couple was taken into custody Wednesday and charged in a case of animal cruelty.

Timothy, 38, and Nicholas, 35, Hunt were arrested Jan. 15 and charged with aggravated animal abuse after the Crenshaw County Sheriff’s Office received a complaint in reference to animal neglect involving multiple canines. At the Hunt’s residence on Montgomery Highway in Highland Home, investigators with the Sheriff’s Criminal Investigation Division found 24 canines suffering various degrees of neglect.

According to Chief Deputy Chris Stewart, Chief Investigator Jordan Arrighi and Deputy Justin Wood responded to the residence along with Animal Tails Rescue workers.

“Upon arrival, investigators observed multiple canines who were emaciated and suffered from severe skin and eye infections,” Stewart said. “They were able to identify the owners of the residence. They were present at the time of the incident.” 

The 24 canines, seven adults and 17 puppies, were removed from the property, Stewart said. Animal Tails Rescue transported the animals to their rescue facility to receive medical treatment. 

Stewart said the rescue is accepting donations to aid in the care of the canines. Anyone interested in donating for the medical treatment of the canines may contact Animal Tails Rescue at (334) 508-2027 or on the organization’s website at www.animaltailsrescue.org.