Hundreds of starving cattle and dozens of dead ones found at Montana ranch, cops say

Sixty-five cows were found dead and at least 230 more were found starving on a Montana man’s property, officials say.

Cascade County Sheriff’s Office officials arrested George Johnathan Savoy for aggravated animal cruelty, the sheriff’s office said in a Tuesday news release. The dead and starving cows were found on Savoy’s property, according to a news release.

“These cows and calves are in critical condition and we are assigning deputies to care for them and assist with calving to attempt to save the remaining livestock,” the Sheriff’s Office said. “The commissioners are working on a long-term care solution for the cattle.”

Officials were alerted to the starving cows by people who drove past the property and saw several dead cows, the Great Falls Tribune reported. Some of the surviving cows are pregnant, according to the news outlet.

“Some of these moms, you could walk right up to,” Deputy County Attorney Jennifer Quick told the Tribune. “They couldn’t get up, they were so weak.”

Several public entities came together to send food and water to the property, including the county commissioners, county attorney’s office, public works and the state livestock inspector, according to the news release.

“Due to the enormous financial cost to the taxpayers, we have asked the community to help with either feed or financial support,” Sheriff Jesse Slaughter said in the news release. “At the time of this post, neighbors are helping, and we have already received some donations.”