Three charged in Horry County after investigation into mistreatment of animals

The Horry County Police Department arrested three men in a months-long investigation into alleged animal mistreatment at the 3000 block of Rainbow Drive in Longs.

Jachym Ni’Yan Evans, 20, Themontres Malik Livingston, 24, and Jemar Dwight Chestnut, 44, were charged with conspiracy/criminal conspiracy. Officials say the investigation is ongoing and further charges are likely.

Assisted by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, HCPD conducted an investigation into reports of animal mistreatment and neglect between April 23 and May 26, 2026. Investigators were tipped off by an anonymous community member who reported concerns to Horry County Environmental Services.

Multiple dogs were safely removed from the property and are receiving care from a North Carolina-based rescue organization. Pictures released from authorities show dozens of law enforcement personnel on the scene, dogs in large cages outdoors and at least one very thin dog.

According to police, the investigation remains active.

Chestnut was previously arrested and served with warrants for 36 counts of harboring animals for fighting and 29 counts of ill-treatment of animals in June 2023. After conducting a non-animal search off of Highway 57 South near Swampee, authorities found and removed 36 dogs from the premises.

This story was originally published July 17, 2026 at 11:15 AM.