MILLER COUNTY, Ark. -- A woman arrested for felony animal cruelty this month in Miller County is accused of leaving a dog to starve to death inside an empty house.
Alyssa Lee Ann Monaghan, 23, allegedly moved out of a residence in the 6300 block of Miller County Road 10 in early November but left two dogs, a dachshund and a larger "tan heeler type," behind, according to a probable cause affidavit. A nearby resident alerted Miller County Sheriff's Office deputies Nov. 14.
Monaghan allegedly was observed moving belongings from the home for a few weeks but had not been seen there since Nov. 10. The nearby resident became concerned when the larger of two dogs was heard barking and seen sticking its head out of a broken window.
Deputy Hayden Richardson and Sgt. Wesley Penny allegedly found the house in disarray with trash and animal waste spread throughout. The house was without electricity and appeared unoccupied.
Blood was smeared throughout the house and a dead black and tan dachshund was found lying on the bedroom floor.
"The dog was severely malnourished with its ribs and hip bones protruding," the affidavit states.
The larger dog was also malnourished and was released to a family member of Monaghan's.
"Deputies did not observe any food or water left out for either dog," the affidavit states.
Monaghan was arrested Feb. 14 on a charge of felony aggravated animal cruelty. As a condition of her $15,000 bail, Monaghan is prohibited from owning or possessing any animals while her case is pending.