24 young calves found dead on property west of Burr Oak

An investigation by the Winneshiek County Sheriff's Office into a report of neglected livestock has led to charges being filed against a Decorah man.

The investigation discovered dead calves on a farm west of Burr Oak.  A search warrant was issued to further investigate the matter.  20 young calves were seized as a result of the search warrant, while 24 calves were found dead on the property. 

51-year-old Craig Underbakke of Decorah has been charged with neglect of livestock, a serious misdemeanor under Iowa Code Section 717.2 of the Iowa Code, and multiple counts of failure to properly dispose of dead calves under Iowa Code Section 167.18, a simple misdemeanor.

The livestock seized under the search warrant have been removed to a private feed lot.  Their care is being supervised by a local veterinarian.

The Sheriff's Office was assisted by a local veterinarian and the Winneshiek County Attorney's Office.