STURGIS, S.D. – The Meade County Sheriff’s Office says they, along with the South Dakota Animal Industry Board, have seized several horses and other livestock from a residence on Eagle Ranch Road in Box Elder.
The sheriff’s office says they have been working an investigation in regards to the neglect and abuse of several of these animals.
On February 17, the owner, Tamara Lile who opened The Charm Farm Refuge in 2019 on 10 acres, was cited under SDCL 40-1-12, which is allowing an animal to suffer. A plan was developed for the care of the animals at that time.
Follow-up investigation revealed the animals were still not being taken care of, even though resources were available at the property to take care of the animals.
Based on the evidence at the scene, and the expertise of the SD Animal Industry Board, the remaining horses and donkeys were seized and impounded.
The citation issued to Lile is an allegation and charges are pending at this time.
This case remains under investigation, and is now in the hands of the Meade County States Attorney.
