BARTON COUNTY — Law enforcement authorities re investigating a suspect for alleged animal cruelty.

Just after 2:30p.m. Thursday, the Barton County Sheriff’s Office assisted the Golden Belt Humane Society and the Barton County Health Department in the execution of a search warrant in connection with a case of animal cruelty and maintaining a public nuisance, according to Sheriff Brian Bellendir.

Upon entering the residence in the 400 block of North East 110 Avenue, authorities found excessive quantities of feces and extremely unsanitary conditions.

Twenty cats, four dogs and two chickens were removed from inside the residence. Another 10 cats, two dogs a horse and a donkey were found outside of the residence.

A decaying horse carcass was also found in a barn.  It had been there for several months, according to Bellendir.

All the animals were taken to the Golden Belt Humane Society to be examined by a veterinarian. Many of the animals showed signs of neglect or poor health.  The residence was deemed to be unlivable.

Deputies arrested Cletus Wolford, 63 of Ellinwood, on requested charges of cruelty to animals, maintaining a public nuisance and obstruction of officers.

He is being held in lieu of a $2500.00 bond and may face additional charges, according to Bellendir.