LAURENS, S.C. – A woman was arrested after reportedly refusing to feed her ex-boyfriend’s dog and leaving him in near-death conditions in South Carolina.
The Laurens County Sheriff’s Office launched a criminal investigation after receiving reports of inhumane treatment of a dog on Lisbon Road. A warrant was obtained for Elizabeth Lena James, who was arrested on Thursday.
According to sister station Lex18, officials said James refused to feed “Champ,” as it was her ex-boyfriend’s dog and she was mad at him. Officials said the dog was in her care for at least a month.
Laurens County Sheriff Don Reynolds said, “Inhumane treatment of animals will not be tolerated on my watch.” He also said no animal should have to go without food or water.
A New York City rescue took the 16-month-old mastiff in and had to quickly administer life-saving efforts. The rescue posted disturbing photos of Champ, who was just skin and bones and covered in maggots upon arrival.
“This poor dog suffered unimaginable pain by being tied up & denied food,” the rescue wrote.
Since then, Champ has had two blood transfusions, according to the rescue. Champ remains in poor condition, but there are hopes he can keep strong.
James has been booked into the Laurens County Detention Center where she faces animal cruelty charges.
A‘Justice for Champ’ Facebook page has been made for supporters to follow his journey. Keep fighting Champ!
