CLAYTON COUNTY, Ga -- Police have identified a person of interest in what they are calling a "horrific" case of animal abuse.
Animal control officials were responding to an eviction notice last week when they found two dogs chained outside a vacant residence. According to animal control commander Capt. Anthony Thuman, one dog, who has been named "Peace" and "Dreamer" on social media, died after being taken to a veterinarian.
"Both dogs were extremely emaciated," Thuman said. "This is a horrific and disturbing case of abuse, and is being given the highest priority in our department."
Thuman said they are searching for Matthew Darnell Jeffries, who is the last known resident of the rental home.
"He is a person of interest," Thuman said. "We can't say if he is going to be charged, but we would like to speak with him."
Whoever is charged, Thuman said, will face several counts of abuse that could escalate into felony charges.
The second dog rescued at that location is in relatively good health, Thuman said, and has not been give a name. Both dogs appear to have been between the ages of 2 and 3 years old.
PHOTOS | Dogs found on brink of death
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