39 Animals Seized, 1 Person Arrested in Connection with Animal Abuse case

CASE UPDATE: 39 Animals Seized, 1 Person Arrested in Connection with Animal Abuse Case

The Horry County Police Department has made a significant breakthrough in an animal care and treatment case, resulting in the arrest of one individual and the seizure of 39 hounds.

Herbert Dozier, a Conway, SC resident, is facing 78 charges, including 39 felony counts of ill-treatment of animals. The investigation was sparked by a tip from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) on August 21, 2025, regarding concerns about the care and treatment of animals in the Merritt Drive area of Horry County.

Upon responding to the scene, officers observed multiple animal violations, including dogs tied to trees and improperly housed in kennels. Following a thorough investigation, the dogs were seized and transported to the Horry County Animal Care Center, where they are currently receiving assessment, treatment, and care.

Please note that the animals involved in this case are not currently available for adoption, foster, rescue, or media access. However, if you're interested in supporting the Horry County Animal Care Center, consider adopting one of the many available pets in their care. By adopting, you'll create space in their kennels for future intakes like this one.

The Horry County Police Department would like to remind the community that public safety is a joint effort. If you witness or suspect animal abuse or neglect, please report it immediately. You can call Horry County 911 dispatch at 843-248-1520 for emergency situations or submit non-emergency, animal-related crime tips to the HCPD Environmental Services Division at environmentalservices@horrycountysc.gov.

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of animals in our community.