A Lafayette County man has been charged with felony animal cruelty after deputies found dead and malnourished dogs on his property.

According to the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office, on Sunday, deputies responded to a report of possible animal cruelty on County Road 418.

Deputies could see several dogs that appeared malnourished as well as dogs that were already dead and still attached to collars and chains.

No one was home when deputies arrived. A search warrant was issued.

Twenty animals were rescued and taken to a local veterinarian office for evaluation and care and 10 dogs were found deceased.

On Wednesday, Terry E. Pegues, 47, 15 CR 418, was arrested and charged with 10 counts of animal cruelty. He was taken to the Lafayette County Detention Center where he was booked on a $75,000 bond.

This is an ongoing investigation. If anyone has any information, call LCSO at 662-234-6421 or LOU Crime Stoppers at 662-234-8799.