Arrests Made in Startling Montana Animal Cruelty Investigation

A massive animal cruelty investigation in southwest Montana has resulted in arrests and the rescue of dozens of severely neglected animals following a coordinated law enforcement response in the Clarkston area.

On April 29, 2026, deputies from the Gallatin County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant after an investigation into suspected animal abuse. The operation was carried out in partnership with local animal control and multiple assisting agencies.

Dozens of Severely Neglected Animals Found in Montana

Authorities searched the property and discovered several animals in severe states of neglect. The total number of animals is below.

• Eight horses
• Two donkeys
• One cow
• Eleven dogs
• Eight guinea hens
• One cat

In addition, the carcasses of one horse, one cow, and one dog were also recovered on the property.

According to officials, all surviving livestock were found in severely emaciated condition. A veterinarian conducted an on-site evaluation and determined the animals were suffering from malnutrition, dehydration, and severely overgrown or neglected hooves, indicating prolonged lack of proper care.

Animal control units from the Bozeman and Belgrade Police Departments assisted with safely removing and transporting the animals from the property. The Sheriff’s Office Mounted Patrol also helped secure and move the untrained and unruly horses, which required deputies to pursue them on foot and capture them by hand across steep, sloped pastureland.

The recovered livestock were transferred to a safe location, where they are receiving emergency care from a veterinarian and nutritional and rehabilitation support.

Following the investigation, authorities arrested two individuals connected to the property. Miguel Lopez and Jewels Lynch have both been charged with cruelty to animals.