Two suspects are in custody, facing animal cruelty charges after police found a dozen puppies deceased inside a cooler outside their home.
Deputies with the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office responded to the call of a property owner who reported finding 12 deceased animals inside a large spray-printed cooler near the home.
Investigators identified the suspects’ vehicle through video and arrested Brandon Lee Bennefield, 32, and Samuel Blease Smith, 56, on charges of abandonment of animals and ill treatment of animals.
The two suspects allegedly admitted to abandoning the kids on April 5 because they could no longer care for them.
“The case is heartbreaking and highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership and the resources available for those who find themselves unable to care for animals,” Sheriff Hobart Lewis said.
“We are thankful for the work of our Animal Cruelty Unit and Greenville County Animal Control for swiftly identifying and charging those responsible.”
