A FedEx driver reported troubling conditions at a rural Charleston, Arkansas property, prompting a Franklin County investigation and the arrest of 56-year-old Charles Richard Ostendorf. Authorities executed a search of about 28 acres, using a drone to locate kennels and areas where animals had been confined; deceased animals were found at several locations. Rescue groups removed 11 dogs, along with kittens and a goat; one dog died after being transported for care. Investigators continue to withhold details while the case remains active.
Man Arrested After Large-Scale Animal Cruelty Investigation Near Charleston; 11 Dogs, Kittens and a Goat Rescued
Image Credit: Franklin County Detention Center.
A routine delivery stop led a FedEx driver near Charleston, Arkansas, to photograph and report concerning conditions at a rural property. That tip prompted a Franklin County Sheriff's Office investigation that culminated in the arrest of 56-year-old Charles Richard Ostendorf and a search of roughly 28 acres where multiple animals were found in poor condition.
Investigation and Arrest
The Franklin County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant at about 11 a.m. after investigators followed up on the initial report. Authorities say they filed 17 animal-cruelty charges against Ostendorf: 14 counts of aggravated cruelty to a dog, cat, or equine, and three counts of cruelty to animals. The sheriff's office has withheld additional details while the investigation remains active.
Search Findings
With nearly 28 acres to survey, deputies used a department drone to locate old kennels and other areas where animals had been confined. The search uncovered deceased animals in multiple locations, including remains found inside cages. Investigators searched beyond the immediate yard and buildings to cover the full property.
Rescue Response and Animal Care
Local shelters, veterinarians, rescue groups and volunteers mobilized quickly. Jak's Second Chance Rescue Ranch, the Charleston Animal Shelter, Bubbadog Rescue, The Artemis Project and other partners assisted with on-site triage and transports. Rescuers arrived late at night in protective gowns and gloves after being warned some dogs might have a contagious form of mange.
Eleven dogs were removed from the property, along with kittens and a goat. The dogs were transported to a rescue location, but one died shortly after arrival. Several survivors were described by rescue leaders as emaciated and in extremely poor condition; many required immediate veterinary care and cooling due to heat exposure.
Voices on the Scene
Jenny Bridges, director of Jak's Second Chance Rescue Ranch, said the photos and animals were "just emaciated, covered in mange." Her team drove roughly two and a half hours to reach Charleston and responded overnight to help evacuate animals.
The sheriff's office continues to investigate. All parties are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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