MELISSA ANN IGLESIAS arrested after dead, malnourished animals found at Hoke County property
- North Carolina, USA -
The Hoke County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of 46-year-old MELISSA ANN IGLESIAS (pictured).
On September 2, 2026, Hoke County Animal Control responded to a residence in the 600 block of Covington Road in Raeford after receiving a report involving animal welfare concerns.
According to a press release issued by the Sheriff's Office, Animal Control Officers discovered several deceased animals and others suffering from malnutrition.
The Sheriff's Office was subsequently contacted and asked to assist with a further investigation.
Detectives obtained and executed a search warrant at the residence, where they discovered additional deceased and malnourished animals and reptiles.
Hoke County Animal Control took custody of the deceased animals and reptiles, while the surviving animals were confiscated and transferred to other caretakers and/or Animal Control for appropriate care, according to the press release.
IGLESIAS, the owner of the residence, was arrested on October 30, 2026, after she "voluntarily arranged to meet with detectives at the Hoke County Detention Center," the Sheriff's Office stated.
IGLESIAS was charged with 27 misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty and 17 felony counts of animal cruelty, for a total of 44 charges.
IGLESIAS was brought before a magistrate, who set her secured bond at $30,000.
At the time of writing, online arrest records indicate that IGLESIAS remains in custody.
Court records show that IGLESIAS is scheduled to return to Hoke County District Court on November 10, 2026, at 9:30 a.m.
The Sheriff's Office did not provide details regarding the species or the total number of deceased and surviving animals discovered at the residence.
I have contacted Hoke County Sheriff Roderick Virgil and Detective Marion Garvin to request additional information. If I receive a response, I will publish an update.
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Voice For Us Disclaimer: This story is based on the press release issued by the Hoke County Sheriff's Office. Please note that details may be removed or new information added should updates become available.
In the case of charges being dropped, dismissed, or the case being purged, this article will be rectified accordingly, if official documentation is provided to Voice For Us.
Mugshot shared from the Hoke County Sheriff's Office.
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