Nash County woman charged with animal cruelty and felony child abuse

ELM CITY, N.C. (WTVD) -- A woman is facing numerous charges after an investigation into complaints of animal cruelty and neglect.

Nash County deputies and animal control officers responded Wednesday to the 6000 block of Hornes Road in reference to the complaints.

When deputies began investigating, they found "multiple deceased animals" on the property and "horrific living conditions" inside the home, including no running water and extensive animal feces and urine throughout the home.

A 17-year-old in the home was taken to a hospital for evaluation and subsequently placed in the custody of Nash County Child Protective Services after deputies deemed the condition of the home to be "an immediate health and safety risk" to the teen.

The homeowner, Amanda Wiersma, 46, was arrested and charged with four counts of felony cruelty to animals and one count of felony child abuse/neglect (intentional infliction of serious injury).

Wiersma is being held at the Nash County Detention Center under a $50,000 secured bond. Her first court appearance is scheduled for 9 a.m. Thursday.

The investigation remains active, the sheriff's office said, and additional charges are possible.

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