Putnam County woman arrested, accused of animal cruelty

Deputies: Deondra Milledge, 27, arrested on 5 counts of animal cruelty

Putnam County Sheriff's Office booking photo of Deondra Nicole Milledge.

WELAKA, Fla. – Deputies arrested a 27-year-old woman Tuesday accused of abusing or neglecting her dog and multiple puppies.

The Putnam County Sheriff's Office Animal Services said on Monday at 3:30 p.m., they received information regarding a possible malnourished dog in the 100 block of Beecher Springs Road.

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Investigators said a passerby noticed a deceased dog lying near a trash collection site (WARNING: Graphic photo) along with six puppies, three of which were also deceased.

Authorities said the Good Samaritan collected the three remaining puppies and took them home to care for them. (pictured, right, Hope and Beecher)

According to deputies, further investigation revealed that the pit bull/hound mix and her puppies may have been neglected and/or abused as they were severely emaciated.

Sgt. Tom Swart began investigating the incident and located the suspect, identified by deputies as 27-year-old Deondra Milledge.

Deputies said Milledge was arrested on Tuesday and booked into the Putnam County Jail on five counts of animal cruelty. Milledge was given a bond in the amount of $5,020.

"It amazes me that a human being can be so insensitive and cruel," said Sheriff Jeff Hardy.