A case of animal neglect has led to the arrest of a 73-year-old Lake City man. Law enforcement and humane society officials found malnourished and caged animals at his home on Southeast Putnam Street. Action News Jax reported that Ronald Wayne Nims now faces charges after investigators discovered a dozen animals needing medical care and another thirteen kept without food or water.
Authorities responded after the Lake City Humane Society, which had previously issued a 72-hour notice to comply with state statutes on animal care, was denied entry by Nims to perform a compliance check. The intervention revealed a total of 25 animals suffering from neglect. "Officers spoke with a Humane Society employee, who explained the 73-year-old homeowner had been issued a 72-hour notice requiring him to comply with the state statute regarding the care of his animals," detailed a report from News4Jax.
The Lake City Police Department filed thirty counts of animal cruelty against Mr. Nims. WCJB detailed the charges, which include "five counts of Torture Inflict Pain Serious Injury or Death, 13 counts of Confine Animal without Sufficient food/water, and 12 counts of Torment Deprive Mutilate." The animals found on the property – dogs, cats, and chickens – have since been rescued and are now in the care of the Lake City Humane Society. Ronald Nims was taken into custody following the search of his home and is being held at the Columbia County Jail.
