Two wanted on animal cruelty charges in Walton County

DEFUNIAK SPRINGS - The Walton County Sheriff’s Office is seeking the whereabouts of a couple concerning the mistreatment of several animals on their property.  A Sheriff’s Deputy along with a Walton County Animal Control Officer report that three dogs and a hog were malnourished to the point that their ribs were clearly visible.

On Sunday afternoon, an anonymous tip led authorities to a residence on Bell Drive, just outside of DeFuniak Springs.  One dog was lying down, connected to a chain and was severely malnourished.  The dog made several attempts to move its legs, but could not.  A dead dog was also chained and malnourished, lying on its side approximately fifteen-feet behind the first one.

A third dog was chained, just like the first and second ones.  The third dog was standing and attempting to bark, but was also severely malnourished.  In addition, a malnourished hog was located in a five by eight foot pen on the property. 

The Walton County Sheriff’s Office picked-up the hog, and is in the process of feeding it at its animal pen.

Authorities are looking for the homeowners, Billy and Brandy Thorn.  If you know of their location contact the Walton County Sheriff’s Office at 892-8111 or Crimestoppers’ of Walton County at 1-866-718-TIPS (8477).