CHADRON, Neb. (KOLN/Gray News) — A Nebraska rancher is facing multiple felony charges after 56 dead cows and a shot puppy were discovered in separate incidents, authorities say.
Dillon McGannon, 29, appeared in court Wednesday following his initial arrest on May 28. According to court records, McGannon allegedly shot a woman’s puppy and sent her threatening messages along with images of the dead animal. He was charged with cruel animal neglect, disturbing the peace, and electronic intimidation.
Two days later, on May 30, a neighbor contacted Dawes County deputies after checking on McGannon’s ranch while he was in jail. The neighbor discovered a pen containing dozens of dead cattle.
According to the Dawes County Sheriff’s Office, the neighbor had previously been asked by McGannon to help transport cattle to a sale barn in late March, but a snowstorm prevented the move. Authorities believe McGannon left the cattle penned without food or water afterward.
A veterinarian joined deputies to execute a search warrant, leading to the discovery of 56 dead cows, excluding calves, in and around the pens. The animals are believed to have died from malnutrition and dehydration and had likely been dead for over three months.
McGannon was arrested again and charged with 56 counts of intentional cruelty to an animal. His bond was set at $50,000, and he is due back in court on July 2.
