BLAKELY, Ga (WDHN) — A Blakely woman is in custody after evidence points to animal cruelty.

On Wednesday, April 12, Blakely Police received information about a case of possible animal abuse at a home on South Church Street in Blakely, according to their Facebook.

Reports say that officers collected enough supporting evidence of several dogs being kept in unsanitary conditions, illegally tethered, and with inadequate shelter, food, and water.

On Friday, April 14, Tammy Patterson, 60, of Blakely was arrested for eight counts of cruelty to animals and was transferred to the Early County Jail.

A local volunteer helped care for the animals on site while arrangements were made for their long-term care and/or relocation, according to BPD.

The Atlanta Humane Society was contacted and began working to find new homes for the animals.

  • Photo courtesy of Blakely Police Department
  • Photo courtesy of Blakely Police Department
  • Photo courtesy of Blakely Police Department

On Tuesday, April 18th, the Humane Society arrived at the location and was able to provide the animals with veterinarian care, documented the conditions, and started the relocation process for the dogs and cats.

Officials say the dogs now have new homes or have arrangements for new homes. Several cats were also removed from the home, and arrangements have been made for their care.