LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — Update 10:47 p.m.
Lake County Animal Enforcement and the Agricultural/Marine Unit are investigating a livestock welfare case following a complaint received on April 13.
Deputies responded to a property on Atlantis Road, where they conducted an initial assessment from the roadway and observed several zebu-type cattle in what officials described as severely emaciated condition.
Authorities reported that the animals had visible ribs, spines, and pelvic bones, indicating malnutrition. The pasture was described as mostly bare sand with no adequate or clean feed source available.
Investigators obtained a search warrant for the property; however, the owner ultimately surrendered the livestock to authorities.
Officials stated that the investigation is ongoing and that criminal charges may be filed.
Original report:
This is a breaking story.
Lake County officials are removing several malnourished cattle from a farm in Tavares. Our crew on scene says one trailer has been filled and taken with cattle; and another is being prepared to remove more cattle.
Channel 9 will have more information as it becomes available.
Crews are on scene and say there are about 30 cattle at the farm.
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