Cotton Branch Family,

I want to share an important update about the recent security breach at Cotton Branch—one that has left us shaken, exhausted, and facing one of the toughest challenges we’ve ever encountered.

On January 9th, our farm truck was stolen from the sanctuary at midnight. Law enforcement pursued the vehicle, which was later found wrecked and totaled on the side of the road. The suspect fled into the woods, and while no arrests have been made yet, police are actively investigating, following several credible leads and supporting evidence.

In addition to stealing and destroying our truck, the suspect also busted through our front fence line when leaving the property. Thankfully, no animals were harmed, but the damage adds yet another urgent repair to our already overwhelming list—including fencing still in need of fixes from past hurricanes.

Even with security measures in place, we continue to face violations of our sanctuary. This incident happened in the dead of night, leaving us scrambling to secure the property and care for the animals, while also grappling with the devastating loss of a vehicle that was more than just transportation—it was a lifeline. That truck allowed us to provide feed, straw, and essential supplies for the animals who rely on us, and its loss has left us struggling to figure out how to continue managing our work with fewer resources and mounting stress.

For Josh and me, the emotional toll is unbearable. We have dedicated our lives to creating a place of peace and safety for these animals, only to have that sanctuary repeatedly violated. The constant worry—about the animals, about the property, about what might happen next—never leaves. Every violation feels like a personal attack, and this latest incident has left us drained, overwhelmed, and questioning how much more we can endure.

In response, we have installed even more cameras, enhanced lighting, and updated our safety plan with a stronger focus on surveillance. While these measures provide a greater level of security, they don’t erase the deep emotional and financial impact this has had on us. We are exhausted in every sense of the word. The weight of this loss, combined with sleepless nights and the cumulative stress of past challenges, is overwhelming.

We know the animals rely on us, and their lives keep us pushing forward—but right now, we need help. If you would like to support our recovery and rebuilding efforts, your kindness would mean more than we can express. This is one of the hardest times we’ve faced, and we are truly grateful for any help you can give.

For the Animals,

Evan Costner

Executive Director

Cotton Branch Farm Sanctuary