Grovetown, Georgia – Margaret Nevils, a 41-year-old woman, has been charged with felony cruelty to animals in Grovetown, Georgia. On January 5, 2024, she was arrested following a disturbing discovery at her residence. The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) found 14 deceased dogs and puppies, in various stages of decomposition, scattered throughout Nevils’ property during a welfare check on January 4.
The grim find was made after a concerned neighbor, who had not seen Nevils or any activity at her home since October, called for a welfare check. The house was in a deplorable state, with animal feces littering the floor and furniture in ruins. The bodies of the deceased dogs were found in various locations on the property, including inside a refrigerator and a freezer.
Among the deceased dogs, deputies found a ray of hope in the form of a surviving pit bull, emaciated and in poor health, but alive. The pit bull has been rescued and is currently in the care of a county shelter, with its potential adoption pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.
Nevils claimed she had become overwhelmed by the demands of running an animal rescue and had abandoned the animals. She was released from custody on a $5,100 bond. However, the case is far from closed as CCSO continues to investigate the incident and plan necropsies for the deceased dogs. This will aid in determining the next steps in prosecution.
In summary, Margaret Nevils of Grovetown, Georgia, stands accused of felony cruelty to animals after 14 deceased dogs and puppies were found scattered throughout her property. The lone survivor, a pit bull, is now in the care of a county shelter as the investigation continues.