Erwin couple charged with aggravated animal cruelty

Two Erwin residents have been arrested following an animal cruelty investigation by the Unicoi County Sheriffs Department. Unicoi County deputies were contacted Jan. 3 by the Unicoi County Animal Shelter about an anonymous tip regarding animal abuse and neglect, according to Chief Deputy Frank Rogers. Deputies went to 1704 N. Main Ave., Erwin, to investigate the allegations. Once on scene, deputies observed numerous dogs inside three separate chain-link enclosures. The enclosures were partially covered with tarps and littered with feces and deep mud. The animals' fur was matted up with mud and feces as well, and the hair was falling out of one of the dogs. The deputies determined that the enclosures lacked adequate shelter and lacked any source of fresh water. The animals appeared to be severely malnourished with their skeletal structure showing through the skin of the animals. Deputies also documented that the animals appeared to be passing blood as it was documented to be visible in the feces. The owners of the animals were determined to be Anthony and Brandy Dunbar, who reside at 800 Broyles Ave., No. 10 C, Erwin. The owners stated that they had placed the animals there about a year ago because they weren't allowed to have more than two pets at their current residence. Brandy Dunbar told deputies that she and her husband were the caretakers of the animals. She also stated that she and her husband travel to the location every day to provide food and water. Animal control officers were on scene and documented that the animals were severely emaciated and estimated the body mass score for the animals to be between 1 and 2, which is consistent with severe muscle degradation. The officers further determined that the animals were at serious risk of death. As a result, the Dunbars were arrested and charged for aggravated cruelty to animals. Both were transported to the Unicoi County Jail where they were later released on bond. Both are rescheduled to be arraigned Jan. 22 in Unicoi County General Sessions Court.