BURTCHVILLE, Mich. (WWJ) -- Charges are expected to be filed in an alleged case of cruelty involving two dozen animals in St. Clair County.
According to Michigan State Police, the investigation began Monday evening when Lapeer Post troopers responded to a complaint about dogs attacking a neighbor’s chickens in Burtchville Township, along Lake Huron in Michigan's Thumb.
MSP said a preliminary investigation led to the discovery of numerous animals on the property without food, water or proper living conditions.
A barn on the property contained several dogs locked in crates with no food or water, some with injuries, with a sweltering temperature of 109 degrees inside.
In total, officials with the MSP Third District said 24 animals — including donkeys, goats, cats, dogs, chickens and a turkey — were rescued from the residence, with help from animal control officers.
There were no immediate arrests in the case.
Police said the incident remains under investigation, and that a report will be sent to the St. Clair County Prosecutor’s Office for charging decisions once the investigation is complete.