Missoula, MT — A 55-year-old woman from Coram, Candy Evans, has been charged with Felony Aggravated Animal Cruelty after authorities discovered 27 dogs living in unsanitary and hazardous conditions on her property. The disturbing discovery was made following multiple visits by law enforcement officers to Evans’s property on Bear Street, prompted by dog-related complaints dating back to August 2024.
According to charging documents, officers found that the dogs were malnourished and lethargic, showing signs of neglect and mistreatment. Evans reportedly refused to comply with requests from authorities to relinquish the animals, leading to further investigation into the living conditions on her property.
On March 13, a veterinarian was called to assess the situation and confirmed that none of the dogs had been vaccinated for rabies, nor were they licensed in Flathead County. The veterinarian’s inspection revealed a grim scene: the animals were confined to an area covered in fecal matter, urine, and trash, with no apparent source of clean water for the dogs to drink.
The charges against Evans highlight the severity of the situation, as the conditions under which the dogs were kept posed significant health risks not only to the animals but also to the surrounding community. Authorities are currently working to care for the dogs and have taken steps to ensure they receive the medical attention they desperately need.
In response to the case, local organization Flathead Shelter Friends, a non-profit dedicated to improving the quality of life for shelter animals, has called for public support. The organization is accepting donations to fund the care and rehabilitation of the seized dogs while they remain in the shelter. All donations will be used directly for the animals’ needs, including medical treatment, food, and shelter.
Individuals who wish to help can contact Flathead Shelter Friends at 406-890-0459 or via email at [email protected].
As the legal process continues, animal advocates hope this case serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible pet ownership and the need for strong protections for animals in Montana.
