Neglect of puppies Knoxville, TN (US)Incident Date: Wednesday, Feb 13, 2002 County: Knox Local Map: available Disposition: Alleged
Alleged: Constance Whitson
|
|
Four dead puppies were found outside a home in halls and investigators say it's a case of animal cruelty. Neighbors called Knox County Animal Control, alerting them of their find. The owner of the dogs faces six counts of animal cruelty, which could lead to jail time and some hefty fines.
Two puppies and two adult dogs were found alive in the pen and have been taken to the Knoxville-Knox County Animal Shelter. They are underweight but are expected to live. Captain Bryon Hundley with Knox County Animal Control said, "There's many thing that could happen, but it's all basically neglect on the owner's part."
Officials say the two living puppies and two adult dogs were found inside a cage littered with feces, fur, and the other four dead puppies. One of the dead puppies was decapitated, possibly by one of the other puppies.
The dog's owner, Constance Whitson, says she was too sick and too busy to care for the dogs on her own. She left the responsibilities with her 16 year old son. Her son Daniel said, "I'd say if anybody is to take fault, it's me. I was too lazy to take them inside."
Investigators say the puppies had been dead for several days. Children found the animals and their parents called animal control.
Whitson says she tried to find a home for the puppies, but came into to many roadblocks.
Officers feel very strongly that the living dogs will not be returned to the owner, and eventually will be placed up for adoption. Neighborhood MapFor more information about the Interactive Animal Cruelty Maps, see the map notes.
Back to Top References« TN State Animal Cruelty Map
|