University of Mississippi official indicted for animal cruelty charges

Charlotte Pegues, the vice chancellor for student affairs at the University of Mississippi, is currently on leave following her indictment alongside her husband, Terry Pegues, on multiple animal cruelty charges. The couple faces 10 counts of aggravated animal cruelty and 10 counts of simple animal cruelty, stemming from the discovery of numerous deceased animals at their residence outside Oxford. Authorities reported that one living bulldog mix was found in a severely malnourished state, with visible bones, while other dogs were found chained or confined inappropriately. The indictments were served on a Monday, and Charlotte Pegues has been released on a $75,000 bond, while no bond information has been disclosed for her husband, who was arrested earlier in August. The situation has raised significant concern within the community, prompting the university to take action regarding Pegues' employment status. Her attorney has stated that she is not guilty and intends to defend herself vigorously against the charges. In light of the allegations, Pegues has decided to take a personal leave to avoid being a distraction to the university, which she has dedicated her career to. Her attorney emphasized the importance of privacy during this challenging time as she seeks to clear her name. The case has drawn media attention, highlighting issues of animal welfare and the responsibilities of individuals in positions of authority. The university community is now left to grapple with the implications of these serious charges against a high-ranking official, as well as the broader conversation about animal rights and the treatment of pets in domestic settings.