Marshall County Sheriff's Department looks for animal neglect suspects

The couple suspected of neglecting nearly two dozen horses on their ranch in Marshall County have not been arrested. The Marshall County Sheriff's Department believes Brian and Stacy Watts are back in northern Indiana.

On August 25th, the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department found nearly two dozen malnourished horses left to fend for themselves on a farm.

An arrest warrant has been issued for Brian and Stacy Watts, the couple accused of neglecting the 22 horses, two ponies, three goats, three dogs, four cats, and three chickens on the ranch.

An officer says Brian Watts was terminated from the Texas ranch he was working at in September.

Officials believe that Brian and Stacy Watts returned to northern Indiana and are possibly staying with relatives in the La Porte - Michigan City area.

“The magnitude of the situation and if they were able to mistreat animals that really have no way to defend themselves it’s just really cruel. That really strikes close to home in Marshall County. People here are mainly lovers of animals and this really tugs at our heart,” says Marshall County Sheriff Matt Hassel.

Brian and Stacy Watts are each facing 15 counts of animal neglect. 

Sheriff Hassel urges the public to contact their local law enforcement if they see of know the whereabouts of Brian and Stacy Watts.