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Case ID: 18730

Classification: Neglect / Abandonment

Animal: dog (pit-bull)

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Tethered and starved to death, one more survives
Covington, TN (US)

Incident Date: Friday, Oct 14, 2011
County: Tipton

Charges: Misdemeanor, Felony CTA
Disposition: Alleged
Case Images: 3 files available

Alleged: Shawn Beard

A Tipton County court has issued arrest warrants for a Covington resident accused of abusing two dogs.

Investigators say they found two dogs at Shawn Beard's home on Sanford Road last week.

"As a result of local media attention and public interest in the case, there has been some suggestion that this office does not take such animal abuse cases seriously," said District Attorney General Mike Dunavant in a written statement. "The citizens of Tipton County and the 25th Judicial District can rest assured that these cases involving animal cruelty will be handled with the same diligence, professionalism, and dedication to public safety and justice that any other criminal case receives"

Beard is facing two animal cruelty charges.

"I look forward to reviewing the case with the animal control officer, and presenting this disturbing case to the court to achieve some measure of justice for these abused dogs," said Dunavant.

When a veterinarian was finally able to see Grace for the first time in her life, it was confirmed that she was suffering from dehydration, long-term starvation, heartworms, hook worms, round worms and an infestation of fleas.

Her life was not a life - instead, she had a miserable existence - her only respite came in her final hours when compassionate people finally let her know that kindness exists.

It is time for a change in this area - please don't let Grace's death pass by quietly.

You can read her full story online at her Facebook Page .

References

• « TN State Animal Cruelty Map
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