Update: Brazoria County Livestock Neglect Case Results in Civil Hearing and Animal Surrender; Criminal Investigation Ongoing

(BRAZORIA COUNTY, TX, Aug. 30, 2023) – Following a distressing discovery of over 30 dead cattle on an 800-acre property along County Road 809 in Brazoria, a civil hearing has concluded, resulting in the surrender of the remaining livestock. Initially reported on Friday morning, the suspected cause of death was insufficient access to water.

In response to the urgent welfare needs of the remaining animals, the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office, alongside the Sweeny Fire Department, had previously provided approximately 4,000 gallons of water. A necropsy to determine the cause of death is underway, conducted by Texas A&M Large Animal Hospital.

Today, 58 head of cattle were sent to auction in a neighboring county. Additionally, 55 horses and one donkey were transferred to the Blue Bonnet Equine Humane Society.

As the criminal investigation continues, the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office has engaged a licensed veterinarian for consultation. No cattle have been moved upon the veterinarian’s recommendation to allow the animals to recuperate.

The property owner, who is cooperating with the investigation, could potentially face a class A misdemeanor charge for each deceased animal. The Sheriff’s Office has stated that it will not tolerate animal cruelty and vows to pursue the investigation until all facts are discovered, recommending criminal charges as appropriate.