NATCHEZ — An Adams County Justice Court Judge has ordered a former Adams County Sheriff to provide a veterinarian’s report on the condition of four animals on his property.

The animals that appear to be malnourished include a tan horse, two brown and white paint horses and a young tan steer, the court order states.

“Upon being placed under oath, Deputy (Karen) Ewing stated that after numerous reports from the community that expressed concern with the visual appearance of the animals listed here, it was determined that the animals in question needed to be examined by a licensed veterinarian,” the order written by Eileen Maher, justice court judge states.

“It is therefore ordered that the owner of said animals, Chuck Mayfield provide the court with a report from a licensed veterinarian’s findings on each of the four animals as to why they are unable to sustain a healthy weight.

“Also, a report on the recommendations prescribed by the veterinarian as to how each of the animals are too be brought up to normal weight and health conditions for their individual needs. And also, the timeframe expected for each individual animal to meet their own health and weight goal.”

Mayfield, a former sheriff of Adams County, did not respond to a message seeking comment for this story.

Mayfield has seven business days from the date of Maher’s Oct. 7 order to present Ewing with the veterinarian’s reports.

“The court will then review the findings and recommendations of the veterinarian’s reports before deciding if any further action for the welfare of the four animals will be necessary,” the order states.