Nakina Man Charged in Neglect Case

Misdemeanor animal neglect charges have been filed against a Nakina man found with multiple starving dogs on his property.

Randy Elton Hayes, 40, was released on $2,500 secured bond. He was charged with five counts of cruelty to animals, according to detention center records. His address was listed as 1976 Manley Smith Road.

The sheriff’s office and animal protective services went to Hayes’ home on Feb. 3 after repeated complaints about starving and feral dogs roaming the area. The sheriff’s office reported finding some dogs without shelter, fresh water or food. Hayes had allegedly allowed some of his 20 to 30 dogs to roam throughout the neighborhood. APS was not able to capture all the dogs on or around the property, the report said.

The warrants specifically allege that Hayes “did intentionally deprive of necessary sustenance” four hounds and a Labrador mix. The dogs were chained outside without food or water.

The seizure led to a population problem at the shelter, which was already close to capacity due a previous animal cruelty case.