27 Allegedly Neglected Dogs Seized From Property, Including One Dead Puppy

A disturbing case of alleged animal cruelty has reportedly emerged in Flathead County, Montana, prompting an outpouring of community support for the local animal shelter. Candy Jean Evans, 55, has allegedly been arrested for felony aggravated animal cruelty following the reported seizure of 27 dogs from her Coram property on March 13. Among the troubling discoveries was an allegedly dead puppy reportedly found in a trash container inside the home. Evans is facing serious legal repercussions, potentially facing up to two years in state custody if convicted.

The incident came to light after law enforcement first responded to complaints in August 2024 about dogs allegedly being shot at on the property owned by Evans and her sister, Lavina. Despite agreeing to relinquish some puppies that were eventually treated for parvovirus, officials claim that when they returned in September, the sisters apparently refused to cooperate, and subsequent investigations were largely halted until their return in March.

During a recent Flathead City-County Health Board meeting, Austin Hicks, the shelter division manager, detailed the harrowing conditions that officers reportedly encountered upon their return to Evans’ residence. Reports indicated that many dogs were malnourished, with two puppies observed exhibiting lethargy and distended bellies. Officials also allegedly encountered a property littered with dog feces and loose dogs allegedly scavenging for food in trash bins.

“The situation was clearly out of control,” stated Hicks, echoing the sentiments previously expressed by the sisters to law enforcement. The reported seizure not only represents a crucial moment for the animals involved but also poses a significant challenge for the Flathead County Animal Shelter, which was already operating above capacity. While the shelter had anticipated a week to prepare for the influx of dogs, they arrived just a day and a half later, compounding the pressures on staff and resources.

With no dogs currently available for adoption while the case remains under investigation, the shelter is working to manage the increased care demands arising from the seized dogs alongside 10 adoptable animals already in their custody. To address their overcrowding, the shelter collaborated with various animal organizations across Montana, successfully arranging to transfer 16 adoptable animals to other shelters.

In light of the severe neglect allegedly experienced by the animals, veterinary reports indicated that the purportedly unsanitary conditions and insufficient food sources allegedly contributed directly to the unfortunate death of the puppy reportedly found at Evans’ home. The charged atmosphere surrounding the case has not only led to heightened awareness of animal welfare issues in the area but also spurred community members to rally in support of the shelter’s needs.

Currently, the shelter issued a message directing individuals wishing to assist to donate to Flathead Shelter Friends, a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the shelter’s capabilities. In addition, the shelter will continue to accept animals brought in by Flathead County Animal Control, while suspending other surrenders in light of the ongoing crisis.

As the investigation unfolds, many remain hopeful that this shocking case will serve as a turning point for local animal welfare advocacy, shedding light on the serious issues reportedly surrounding animal treatment and care in the community.