The University of Mississippi’s vice chancellor for student affairs, Charlotte Pegues, is currently on leave from her position following her and her husband’s indictment on charges of animal cruelty. Charlotte and Terry Pegues were indicted with 10 counts of aggravated animal cruelty and 10 counts of simple animal cruelty. Charlotte Pegues has been released on a $75,000 bond, according to Lafayette County Sheriff Joey East.

Terry Pegues, on the other hand, had no bond information available in court records. He was arrested in early August on 10 counts of animal cruelty, corresponding to the number of deceased animals discovered at the couple’s residence outside of Oxford. Authorities rescued 20 additional animals from the premises.

The indictment details disturbing conditions, including emaciated dogs, a living bulldog mix with visible rib and hip bones, and other dogs found either chained or confined in cruel conditions. Charlotte Pegues’ attorney, Graham Carner, stated that she pleads not guilty and will vigorously defend against the accusations.

Carner mentioned that Charlotte Pegues will take a personal leave from her role to avoid distracting the university and to protect her reputation. He requested privacy for her during this challenging time. Attempts to reach Terry Pegues’ attorney, Tremarcus Rosemon, by The Associated Press were unsuccessful.