A 42-year-old Lake Placid man was arrested after several malnourished dogs were found at his home on Flamingo Street in Lake Placid on Monday.
James Ididson Barfield was charged with six counts of animal cruelty. His bond was set at $30,000.
The Highlands County Sheriff’s Office Animal Services Unit was called to the area Monday afternoon about an extremely emaciated dog that was in the area. The dog was identified as belonging to Barfield. Further investigation revealed more than a dozen dogs living at Barfield’s home. While some were in good shape, six of them – all in a kennel tucked in the corner of the back yard – showed signs of serious neglect.
There was no food or water in the kennels, which had not been cleaned in some time. All six of the dogs were emaciated to the point where their bone structure was visible. The dog that was seen in the neighborhood and led to the call was also nursing four puppies.
All the dogs and puppies from the kennel were seized by Animal Services. The other dogs were left in the care of a family member at the home, and Animal Services officers will be making regular visits to the home in the future to ensure they are being cared for properly.
Note: Not all arrests result in convictions. Everyone is considered innocent until proven guilty in court.
