SHENANDOAH COUNTY, VA (Rocktown Now) — The Shenandoah County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) executed a search warrant in the area of Mount Jackson, VA after the Shenandoah County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Division received information of over 100 farm animals, including horses, cattle, and donkeys, living in poor conditions on April 23, 2026.

Many of the animals were reportedly found in poor condition and appeared malnourished. Some also showed visible signs of illness. Deputies also discovered animal remains at multiple locations across the property.

This operation required 4 teams of VA veterinarians working to examine all of the animals on the property. The property was deemed inadequate living conditions for the animals, with an insufficient amount of food, and they have been seized from the property, totaling 2 donkeys, 84 horses, and 66 cattle.

The search warrant was executed over a 3-day period (23-25 April 2026). There were over 60 law enforcement personnel and volunteers present to process the crime scene.

The Shenandoah County Sheriff’s Office received assistance from animal rescue organizations, the Virginia Department of Agriculture, veterinarians, and volunteers. SCSO reached out to the Virginia Attorney General’s Office, and the AG’s Animal Law Unit has agreed to direct the prosecution of this investigation. SCSO Sergeant Sabattis is leading this investigation.

The investigation is ongoing.