The Cherokee Marshal’s Office executed a search warrant Dec. 6 at a home at 6336 Union Hill Road as part of an animal investigation.

The investigation began with a request for a welfare check on the animals. The Cherokee County Marshal’s Office conducted a welfare check, and probable cause was found to obtain a search warrant. Evidence located during the execution of the search warrant led to the arrest of the resident, Randall Larry Thaxton, 58.

Thaxton is charged with nine counts of felony dog fighting, and nine counts of misdemeanor cruelty to animals.

Nine dogs were removed from the property, along with other evidence relevant to the case. With the assistance of the Cherokee Animal Shelter, the animals were removed from the premises.

The case remains active and ongoing. No further information is available at this time.