Warrant issued for Erath County woman accused of starving dozens of animals.

 By SARA VANDEN BERGE

An arrest warrant has been issued for Cheryl Barker, an Erath County woman accused of cruelty to non-livestock animals and cruelty to livestock, Chief Deputy Jeremy Woodruff told Beneath the Surface News.

Barker is accused of keeping more than 100 dogs, hamsters, rats, reptiles, birds, horses, goats, pigs and a ferret without adequate food, water or shelter on her property located on County Road 712.

A hearing on March 22 determined that the animals would remain in the custody of Animal Investigation and Response while permanent homes are found.

During the investigation and seizure, investigators discovered carcasses of dead domesticated and livestock animals in various stages of decomposition on the property.

All surviving animals are being cared for by local veterinarians.