On March 31st, officers from the Athens Police Department responded to a report concerning a foul odor emanating from a property on Lindsay Lane. Upon arrival, Officer Paul Tucker found a disturbing situation: numerous dogs were living in unsanitary conditions and lacked access to necessary veterinary care. In collaboration with Dr. Jorge Acosta and Elisabeth O’Connor from the Limestone Veterinary Clinic, law enforcement successfully removed the dogs from the premises.
As the investigation unfolded, it became evident that a 75-year-old man and a 73-year-old woman were operating a commercial dog breeding business under questionable circumstances. Both individuals now face 38 counts each of animal abuse and neglect, a charge classified as a misdemeanor. The couple, who voluntarily surrendered to the Athens Police Department, have been set with a bond amounting to $38,000.
The inquiry into this matter remains active, and all the rescued animals are currently being cared for at the Limestone County Veterinary Clinic. Plans are in place to facilitate adoptions for these dogs starting next week, providing them with a chance for a better life.