Staff ReportPIERCETON – A Pierceton man was arrested in Whitley County for animal cruelty after multiple animals were located in a cluttered residence. Ralph Fancil, 53, 8121 W. Old Trail Road-92, Pierceton, is charged with cruelty to an animal, a class A misdemeanor; possession of marijuana, a class B misdemeanor; and possession of paraphernalia and reckless driving, both class C misdemeanors. On Jan. 12, Whitley County Sheriff’s Office deputies and representatives with the Whitley County Health Department conducted a follow-up investigation at a Pierceton residence. Officers also located marijuana and drug paraphernalia inside the residence. The Whitley County Humane Shelter was contacted to take possession of the dogs, as well as two birds located at the property.