Judge awards seized livestock to Sheriff for auction

The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office was awarded 39 large animals following a court proceeding Wednesday. The animals were seized on August 22nd from a home on Nikolitch Avenue in Flagler Estates.

The 17 cows, nine pigs, 11 goats and two horses were removed after deputies were called to the residence following a report of poor living conditions and neglect. The Court found that the respondents, identified as 40-year-old Tammy Marie Denes, and 40-year-old Donald Eugene Dunbar, were the owners of the animals and were unable to care for them.

The animals were awarded to the Sheriff’s Office to be offered for auction which will be announced to the public at a later date. Individuals who have the ability to provide for these animals are encouraged to attend that auction.

St. Johns County Judge Charles Tinlin ordered that the respondents were permanently enjoined from owning animals until such time that they can demonstrate to the Court the ability and willingness to provide adequate food, shelter, space, and veterinary care and were accessed costs in the amount of nearly $5,300 payable to the Sheriff’s Office for the animals care since the office took possession of them.

Denes and Dunbar also face 39 counts each of animal cruelty and are free on bonds of $39,000 each pending the criminal case.

Photo credits: © 2014 Historic City News contributed photograph by Kevin Kelshaw