ACSO investigates a case of animal cruelty

The Augusta County Sheriff’s Office reports the investigation and arrest in an animal cruelty case.

Investigators with Animal Control were notified by an anonymous caller of concerns of the  living conditions of animals.

Authorities arrived at the property in the 700 block of Augusta Farm Road to find two dogs that appeared to be living in a car with no food or water.

The inside of the vehicle was covered in feces and the temperature had already reached near 90 degrees on that day.

Several dogs were also found on the property in very poor condition.

Search warrants were executed to further investigate the property.

The pursuing investigation resulted in thirteen cats, twenty-eight dogs and six ducks being seized.

Four of the cats eventually had to be euthanized and one dog had to have its legs amputated.

Eight dogs and twenty cats were found to be deceased on the property.

The investigation resulted in the arrest of 59-year-old Carl Rudolph Lentz who faces several counts of animal cruelty.

The seized animals have been taken to an emergency shelter in Verona.

The investigation is ongoing and if anyone has purchased or knows of animal mistreatment at the property in question is asked to contact the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office.

The ACSO phone number 540-245-53333 reference case number 2023-0001669.

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