MOUNTAIN CITY, Ga. — A Mountain City man has been charged with aggravated animal cruelty after Rabun County investigators say an animal was subjected to repeated abuse that resulted in its death.
The Rabun County Sheriff’s Office launched an investigation on June 10 after receiving a report of suspected animal cruelty. Over the following weeks, deputies interviewed witnesses, gathered evidence, and worked with Rabun County Animal Control while investigating the case.
Investigators determined there was probable cause to believe the animal had endured repeated acts of cruelty before it died, said Rabun County Sheriff Mark Gerrells.
On July 7, deputies obtained arrest and search warrants. They executed the search warrant the next day at a Mountain City residence, where they recovered evidence and exhumed animal remains believed to be connected to the case. The remains were sent to the University of Georgia Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory for forensic examination. Final results are still pending.
Deputies arrested 46-year-old Wacho McCluney Sr. and booked him at the Rabun County Detention Center.
“Animal cruelty is a serious crime, and I am committed to ensuring these cases are thoroughly investigated and that those responsible are held accountable,” Gerrells said in a statement.
The Mountain City Police Department assisted with the case. The investigation remains active and ongoing.
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