Man faces charges over dead cows

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Shawano County deputies have arrested 50-year-old Joseph Brunner after they found two dozen dead cattle inside his barn and charged him with a felony count of mistreating animals while causing death, and misdemeanor counts of starving animals and not removing carcasses on a timely basis.

Deputies were investigating the report of a stench coming from that barn after receiving on June 15 reports of a “bad smell” and large flies coming from the property. Neighbors confirmed they also smelled something foul.

Authorities used a search warrant to check out the farm in the town of Belle Plaine.

Tentative charges against the suspect are of animal neglect. If convicted, the maximum penalty on the animal neglect charge would be 18 months in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Brunner waived a preliminary hearing on the felony count. He told authorities that his animals were sick with wasting disease and pneumonia.

The first cow died last November; the most recent cow death was in early March. Reports did not indicate how many animals had died.

Brunner is free on a signature bond – and a judge ordered him to remove any remaining carcasses within 72 hours. He is expected to enter a plea on the charges Monday, June 25.

Tags: wisconsin, agriculture, business, crime