18 animals removed from 'deplorable' conditions at home, officials say

HENRY COUNTY, Ga. — Henry County Animal Control and Care officers said they removed 17 dogs and one cat from "deplorable" conditions at a Henry County home Friday.

Officials said the conditions inside the home in Shoals Road were some of the worst they've ever seen. The homeowner, Sandra Lee, received 44 violations, including public nuisance and inhumane treatment of animals.

Animal Care and Control officials said Lee didn't have proper permitting from the state or the county to breed, and that she violated a county ordinance by having more than four animals living at the property.

Channel 2's Wendy Corona went to the home and talked to neighbors, who said the animals have been a problem for about 10 years.

"We knew there were a lot and we'd seen them get out and chase people but we had no idea how bad it was," neighbor Tammy Hensley told Corona.

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The animals are currently being rehabbed inside Henry County's Animal and Control facility.

Some suffered from worms, parasites, sores open wounds and flea infestation.

Lee faces up to a $1,000 fine and 60 days in jail for each citation.

The court could decide to return the animals to her and if not, rescue groups will take over their care. In the meantime, neighbors are just happy they are no longer in harm's way.

"We feel so much safer, we can go out in the yard and that the animals aren't suffering," Hensley said. "Those pictures are horrible. No animals should live like that."

Cox Media Group