Candler County deputy pleads not guilty to animal cruelty charges

STATESBORO, Ga. (WTOC) - A Candler County deputy and K-9 handler pleaded not guilty Monday to eight counts of animal cruelty.

James Duncan appeared at the Bulloch County courthouse to enter his plea. He is accused of mistreating four German Shepherds, three Plott Hound dogs and one Rottweiler.

Investigators say Duncan did not provide enough food, water, sanitary conditions or proper ventilation to the dogs between Dec. 1, 2025, and Jan. 27, 2026.

Duncan requested a jury trial. Neither he nor the prosecution shared new information about the case.

The Candler County Sheriff’s Office said Duncan has been suspended pending the outcome of the trial. Duncan declined to comment after the hearing.