Authorities take 255 animals from elderly woman

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. — Authorities have taken all 200 sheep and 55 horses from the property of an 80-year-old woman who authorities say has repeatedly neglected them.

Klamath Humane Society officials started investigating reports of malnourished animals at Leta Johnson's property in the spring of 2007. Since then, several charges have been filed, and Johnson spent two nights in the Klamath County Jail after she was arrested June 23.

She then was put under court order to pay for care and food for her animals after a judge determined she was able to do so.

Klamath County District Attorney Cole Chase said the animals were removed last week after she failed to comply.