MARIANNA -- The identities of two suspects in a Jackson County animal neglect case have been released by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.
Investigators were able to identify the owners of the neglected dogs as Heidi Amanda Westman and Leland Emery Kluth, according to a release from JCSO. Arrest warrants for Westman and Kluth for 42 counts of animal cruelty have been issued. Investigators have been unable to locate the suspects and have reason to believe they may have left the immediate area. JCSO is requesting anyone who may have information as to the whereabouts of Westman and Kluth to contact the office at 850-482-9648 or Jackson County Crime Stoppers at 850-526-5000.
On Aug. 8, officers from Jackson County Animal Control, members of the State’s Attorney’s Office and deputies from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office responded to 4381 Francis Drive, Marianna, after a report of abandoned animals. The responding officers determined the owner of the residence had abandoned approximately 40 dogs. The dogs were transported to Animal Control of West Florida, Inc. where they were housed and assessed. Some of the dogs had died and other had numerous health issues, JCSO said.