GRAPHIC: 2 men charged after 12 puppies found dead in cooler, deputies say

GREENVILLE, S.C. (WHNS/Gray News) - Two men in South Carolina are facing animal cruelty charges after a dozen puppies were found dead in a cooler.

The Greenville County Sheriff’s Office said 32-year-old Brandon Lee Bennefield and 56-year-old Samuel Blease Smith were both charged with 12 counts of abandonment of animals and 12 counts of ill treatment of animals.

Deputies said a property owner on North Highway 25 Bypass said they found a large spray-painted cooler near the front of the property with 12 dead puppies inside.

Video helped authorities identify a suspect vehicle, leading investigators to the two suspects.

When arrested, deputies said Bennefield and Smith claimed they could not care for the dogs and chose to abandon them on April 5 around 7:30 p.m.

In a statement, Sheriff Hobart Lewis said the case is “heartbreaking” and that it “highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership.”

He also said there are resources available for anyone who is unable to care for their animals.

Bennefield and Smith were booked into the Greenville County Detention Center on $72,000 bonds.

Officials said they encourage anyone needing assistance with pet care or surrendering animals to contact Greenville County Animal Control at 864-467-7595.