Elko man charged with animal cruelty after neglecting dogs. Here’s how the law protects animals in Houston County

HOUSTON COUNTY — When a Houston County animal control officer arrived on scene after a 2024 animal cruelty complaint, he found five dogs in someone’s yard, and not all of them were still alive. 

On May 9, 2024, the Houston County Sheriff’s Office responded to an animal cruelty complaint at 128 Flournoy Road, District Attorney Eric Edwards said in a statement to the HHJ. 

One dog had died, another was injured, and the other three did not have enough clean water or food.

The resident, Alvin Lester, was arrested and taken to the Houston County Detention Center. 

He later pleaded guilty to two counts of animal cruelty on June 25. He was sentenced to 24 months’ probation. Under the conditions of the probation, he isn’t allowed to have any pets or other animals, and he must cover any expenses incurred to house and care for the dogs following his arrest. 

The animal control officer asked the deputy to charge Lester with animal cruelty. Another resident, Oswald Johnson, also received the same charge. 

According to Edwards, without any evidence to suggest the manner of death of the deceased dog or the cause of injury to the injured dog, HCSO charged both defendants with misdemeanor animal cruelty. The charge stems from their failure to provide adequate clean water and food for all the dogs, and from failing to immediately seek veterinary assistance for the deceased and injured dogs. 

According to court documents, the injured dog was run over, which dismembered his back legs and no veterinarian aid was provided. The dog had to be euthanized due to its injuries. 

The case against co-defendant Johnson has not been sentenced yet, therefore, Edwards could not further comment on the charges. 

In state law and county ordinance, animal cruelty refers to the abandonment and neglect of an animal, causing them to suffer. The ordinance defines neglect as failing to provide food, water and shelter. 

Houston County Animal Control explains what happens after 

Director of Animal Services at the Houston County Animal Control, Alan Smith, responded to the scene that day along with animal control officer Bruce Rozier. 

After responding to a scene, they follow up within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the severity of the situation. 

They also contact a veterinarian to check the animal. Smith said a common problem is pet owners not seeking veterinary care.  

“Any animal, no matter what size it is, no matter what kind of animal it is [or] if that animal is perfectly healthy…it takes three days without water for that animal to die of dehydration. It takes three weeks for that [animal] to die of starvation,” he said in an interview. 

After a person is charged, the sheriff’s office takes the animal to animal control. Georgia’s Cost of Animal Care law holds the abuser accountable by making them pay a certain amount of money each month to the animal’s care costs and impoundment. 

The cost to board animals at the Warner Robins Animal Shelter is $15 per day per dog. The total for the three surviving dogs is $45 per day, with an additional charge for an intake fee of $125 per dog. This totals $375, according to the court documents. 

The dogs have been impounded since May 9, 2024. 

As of now, the estimated cost is $5,055, and the estimated future cost of impoundment is $1,350 per month, including boarding. 

If they do not make their monthly payment, animal control petitions the court to have the person sign the animal over to their care. The animal then becomes property of the county. 

From there, they reach out to animal rescues and help it heal. 

“Your finances are none of my business, but the welfare and caring for your pet is what is my business and how can we alleviate this animal from either starting to suffer, continuing to suffer or in the worst case scenario, that’s when we have to take the animal and have the person charged,” he said.

Smith said they see these types of cases about two to three times a year.  

How Houston County Animal Control wants to help the community

Smith hopes for cases reported early enough and increased awareness from animal control about responsible pet ownership. 

The way they handle most cases is by first helping and educating pet owners, but that approach may not always work. Smith said they try to assist people the best they can, but it is not always easy.

He encourages people to call them early and believes it will help stop future suffering. They also consider the owners’ finances.

“If you call us, we’re more than happy to come and help you, rather than coming out and charging you with something,” he said. 

Smith added that animal control aims to be more social with people and help them understand they are there to do the job. He said each situation is different, and there is no typical day on the job. 

“We are also here to help make your pet’s life much better but not at the expense of a human life,” he said. 

To help struggling pet owners, Houston County Animal Control partners with local rescues in the area. He said people often donate animal food and water bowls. Smith said they can also help with other items, such as dog houses, if someone is in need. 

Smith would like to see those resources expanded, saying the county would benefit from a pet pantry. 

In Macon, Save Our Souls Rescue opened a pet pantry where people can drop off items to help pet owners and stray animals. 

“[Houston County] would benefit from that greatly,” he said. 

Smith encourages anyone experiencing animal issues or who wants to report an incident to call the Houston County Animal Control office at (478) 542-2033. It is also encouraged to visit their website for more information.