Animal Cruelty Investigation in Axton Leads to Multiple Charges
- BTW21
- Oct 27
- 2 min read
AXTON, Va. (BTW21) — A Henry County man is facing numerous charges after deputies discovered what authorities describe as a “heartbreaking scene of neglect and cruelty” involving dozens of animals at a property in Axton.
According to the Henry County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Division, deputies responded to 745 Giles Road on October 23, 2025, following a 911 call reporting concerns for the welfare of several dogs.
When deputies arrived, they encountered a loose brown and white horse running through nearby yards.
The horse led them to a small barn and garage area where they found several goats, roosters, and four Great Pyrenees dogs — all in poor condition.
Deputies reported that two of the dogs were extremely thin with visible ribs and sores, while another suffered from severe hair loss and open wounds and was found lying on the ground without shelter or clean water.
The goats on the property were also malnourished, with four believed to be pregnant.
A local veterinarian called to assist confirmed the animals were underweight and suffering from neglect.
In addition to the dogs and goats, four cats were also found thin and in need of medical attention.
Deputies also discovered twenty-eight roosters tied to blue barrels with no water available.
Several of the birds had sharpened spurs and visible injuries. Nearby, investigators found supplements and items commonly associated with animal fighting.
A search warrant was obtained, leading deputies to uncover seventy-three knives, leg tape, gaffs, and other materials believed to be used in connection with the mistreatment of animals.
As a result, Lucio Gomez Garcia was arrested and charged with:
28 counts of Animal Cruelty (Virginia Code §3.2-6570)
Animal Fighting (Virginia Code §3.2-6571)
Garcia is being held at the Henry County Adult Detention Center without bond.
During a continued search of the property on October 25, deputies located fifteen additional roosters and eleven more knives hidden behind the property.
Authorities say Garcia will face more charges connected to those discoveries.
Sheriff Wayne Davis said in a statement,
“This was a heartbreaking scene of neglect and cruelty. Our Animal Control deputies, investigators, and veterinarian partners worked together to make sure these animals were removed from harm and are now getting the care they need. We will continue to take every case of animal abuse seriously and make sure those responsible are held accountable.”
The investigation is ongoing, and additional charges are expected.
Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact the Henry County Sheriff’s Office at (276) 638-8751 or Crime Stoppers at (276) 63-CRIME (276-632-7463).
Tips leading to an arrest and conviction could qualify for a cash reward.
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