NEBO, NC – A McDowell County man faces multiple felony and misdemeanor charges after a death investigation at a Nebo residence revealed three people living in hazardous conditions alongside 16 dangerous dogs.
Detective Billie Brown with the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office has charged Derrick Suppes, 58, with:
Felony Abuse of a Disabled Person with Injury
Two counts of Misdemeanor Attack by Dangerous Dog
Misdemeanor Child Abuse
Suppes was issued a $22,000 secured bond.
Discovery at the Residence
The investigation began in the early morning hours of Wednesday, March 11, when deputies responded to a call regarding a female in cardiac arrest. Upon arrival, emergency responders found the woman deceased inside the home.
While securing the scene, deputies and detectives—joined by McDowell County Animal Control—discovered a startling environment. Investigators found that an 11-year-old girl and two adults with special needs were living in the residence without running water or indoor plumbing.
Dangerous Environment and Animal Removal
The investigation determined that Suppes was responsible for the living conditions and for keeping 16 dangerous dogs inside the home. Animal Control successfully removed the animals from the property during the initial response.
With the assistance of the McDowell County Department of Social Services, the child and the two adults were removed from the home and have been placed with relatives.
The McDowell County Sheriff's Office was assisted in this case by:
McDowell County Animal Control
McDowell County Department of Social Services
McDowell County Emergency Services