Iowa Farmer Accused of Starving Dozens of Cattle to Death

Authorities in central Iowa say a farmer is to blame for the death of between 40 and 50 cattle, near Osceola. State and district veterinarians and the Clarke County Sheriff's Office say Michael Bachman will face charges for allowing the animals to starve to death. The cattle were found dead on Bachman's farm over the weekend.

A statement from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship said: "It appears that the livestock producer had been failing to adequately feed his cattle which likely resulted in fatalities." While the weather has been unseasonably cold, Mike Telford, executive director of Iowa Farm Animal Care, told WHO, "if they are fed well, they are going to huddle and be fairly warm as a group of animals."

Clarke County sheriff's deputies have been returning to the farm daily since the discovery of the dead cattle over the weekend, making sure the remaining livestock is being cared for adequately.

Authorities say Bachman has been cooperative during the investigation and charges are pending.

Farmers with concerns about caring for their livestock can contact Iowa Farm Animal Care for assistance. Their name can remain anonymous.