- Tennessee, USA -
In January, Smith County Police arrested 42-years-old KENNETH CONNELL and 45-years-old SUZIE NICOLE NEVILS (both pictured below), in connection with an animal cruelty and neglect case involving more than forty dogs and one rabbit.
On January 26, the Smith County Humane assisted the Smith County Sheriff’s Department with the removal and care of forty-four (44) dogs and puppies and one rabbit, along with the recovery of 10 dead dogs.
As a part of an ongoing animal welfare investigation, a search warrant was executed at a home on 106 Vantrease Road in Smith County.
The search led to the discovery of dogs who were in desperate condition. They were in various states of neglect, malnourished and even to the point of starvation. None of them had food or water. The furbabies were in metal pens and connected to a metal axle with heavy log chains.
The VOICELESS VICTIMS are receiving medical treatment at the Smith County Animal Clinic.
Through a Facebook post, the Smith County Humane expressed its gratitude to the clinic for all the help and time spent assisting with the care for the dogs involved in this case which has been called “Operation Worthy.”
In less than 24 hours an emergency shelter has been put up in an undisclosed location to face this unexpected situation as Smith County doesn’t have a shelter or animal control.
This is DISGRACEFUL!!!
Smith County Humane explained: “Dr Lindsey Dixon (SCAC), techs and Dr Cooper (Joy Clinic) met us upon arrival at the emergency shelter to process every one of the dogs with basic exam to determine who needed immediate care and who needed further examination, Dr Baker and techs have come back out on site to assist with further testing.”
As you can imagine, in cases like this there is an ongoing need for all kinds of monetary donations, items, volunteers, and foster homes.
Please, visit the Smith County Humane, TN Facebook page as daily posts are published requesting the items the organization needs the most. Thank you!
As for the criminal aspect of this case, NEVILS and CONNELL are being charged with 15 counts of aggravated animal cruelty and neglect.
CONNELL is additionally charged with anti-rabies law violation and cruelty to animals.
Online records show NEVILS is no longer in custody.
Smith County authorities are still investigating the case.
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These two vile humans must be held responsible! Why are monsters drawn to accumulate animals that they have no intentions to care for is a mystery! Bless their rescuers. Please get better Precious Souls.