NATCHEZ, Miss. – The Adams County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a Natchez man following an investigation into the alleged neglect and abuse of numerous animals at a residence in Adams County.
On July 15, 2026, deputies responded to 12 Lily Lane after a concerned citizen called 911 to report suspected animal abuse and neglect. Upon arrival, deputies discovered numerous animals on the property, including dogs, a horse, a donkey, goats, chickens, and a rabbit. Investigators determined that the animals appeared to be severely malnourished and were without adequate food or water.
Deputies immediately began providing food and water to the animals while members of the Adams County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division responded to assist with the investigation. Investigators documented a total of 34 animals on the property, all of which were found without access to food or water.
The investigation identified Jaramy Zevon Johnson, 38, of Natchez, as the owner of the animals.
As a result of the investigation, on July 16, 2026, investigators obtained 34 arrest affidavits, charging Johnson with:
14 counts of Simple Cruelty to a Cat or Dog (Miss. Code § 97-41-16(2)(a))
20 counts of Confining Animals Without Food or Water (Miss. Code § 97-41-7)
On July 20, 2026, investigators obtained a court-authorized seizure warrant. The following morning, members of the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Animal Rescue Corps (ARC), and Dr. Hickman of Natchez Veterinary Clinic executed the warrant at the residence.
During the operation, investigators located an additional dog concealed in a nearby wood line. The dog was also found to be severely malnourished and without food or water. The dog was immediately seized and provided veterinary care, bringing the total number of dogs rescued to 15. As a result, Johnson will also be charged with one additional count of Simple Cruelty to a Cat or Dog.
All 15 dogs were safely removed from the property and transported for veterinary evaluation and treatment. Animal Rescue Corps coordinated the rescue operation and covered all costs associated with the seizure and care of the animals, resulting in no cost to the Adams County Sheriff’s Office or the taxpayers of Adams County.
Also on July 21, 2026, Johnson was taken into custody and booked into the Adams County Jail. He now faces a total of 35 misdemeanor animal cruelty related charges, consisting of:
15 counts of Simple Cruelty to a Cat or Dog
20 counts of Confining Animals Without Food or Water
During the course of the investigation, investigators also discovered that livestock previously observed on the property had been removed after Johnson had allegedly been instructed not to relocate any animals while the investigation was ongoing.
Sheriff Travis Patten praised everyone involved in the investigation and rescue operation.
“This is one of the most disturbing cases of animal neglect our investigators have encountered. Every animal deserves proper care, food, water, and humane treatment.
I first want to commend the concerned citizen who took the time to call 911 and report what they witnessed. Because someone was willing to speak up, these animals were rescued from extremely poor conditions and are now receiving the care and compassion they deserve.
I also want to recognize the outstanding work of the deputies who responded to the initial call, our Criminal Investigations Division, and Animal Crimes Investigator Karren Ewing for conducting a thorough, professional, and compassionate investigation from beginning to end. Their commitment to protecting both our community and its animals is truly commendable.
Finally, I want to extend my sincere appreciation to Animal Rescue Corps (ARC), Dr. Hickman, and the staff of Natchez Veterinary Clinic for answering the call and providing their expertise. Their partnership ensured these animals were rescued safely and immediately received the medical attention they desperately needed.
Animal abuse and neglect will not be tolerated in Adams County. We will continue to aggressively investigate these cases and hold those responsible fully accountable under the law.”
The investigation remains active, and additional charges may be filed as investigators continue to gather evidence.
Anyone with additional information related to this investigation is encouraged to contact the Adams County Sheriff’s Office at 601-442-2752 or Southwest Mississippi Crime Stoppers at 1-888-442-5001
The full post with all pictures from the arrest can be found (warning: some people may find these photos to be graphic) here
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