A Candler County sheriff’s deputy has been arrested and charged with multiple counts of animal cruelty, according to records from the Bulloch County Jail.
Michael Duncan was taken into custody Tuesday and booked on eight counts of animal cruelty. Jail records indicate that he was later released on bond. The Candler County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Duncan served as a K-9 handler and has been suspended from duty while the investigation remains ongoing.
Authorities have not released specific details regarding the alleged abuse or the animals involved. However, an arrest report obtained by WJCL 22 News indicates that the charges stem from an incident that allegedly occurred in Statesboro on January 22.
Bulloch County officials have declined to comment further as the case remains under active investigation. Additional information is expected to be released as authorities continue to review the matter.
As with all criminal cases, the charges are allegations, and Duncan is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.