By: Holly Hollman
ATHENS, AL – On Monday, March 31, officers with the Athens Police Department (APD) executed a search warrant to address an alleged commercial dog breeding operation on Lindsay Lane after receiving a call about an odor emanating from a residence.
Officer Paul Tucker responded to the initial call, finding numerous dogs living in squalid conditions without access to proper veterinary care.
With assistance from Dr. Elisabeth O’Connor and Dr. Jorge Acosta at the Limestone Veterinary Clinic, APD was able to successfully remove the dogs from the residence.
A comprehensive investigation conducted by APD has led to a 75-year-old male and 73-year-old female being charged with 38 counts each related to animal cruelty and neglect. Cruelty to animals is a misdemeanor crime.
The investigation suggested that the couple had allegedly been operating the large-scale dog breeding operation for an extended period of time. The couple turned themselves into APD today and their bond has been set at $38,000.
Statement from Athens Mayor Ronnie Marks:
“This was a terrible situation that we do not tolerate here in our community. We took immediate steps to remedy this situation. We are so proud of the work that has been done by both the Athens Police Department and the Limestone Veterinary Clinic here in Athens.”
Statement from Athens Police Chief Anthony Pressnell:
“These were very bad living conditions for these animals to live in. The Athens Police Department is committed to protecting all of the members of our community – including animals. This was a very bad situation, and we will continue to work to ensure that those responsible for any kind of animal abuse are held accountable.”
This is still an ongoing investigation and there will be no further comment at the time.
The Athens Police Department would still like to thank the Limestone Veterinary Clinic for working tirelessly to get each dog ready to be rescued by foster families.
According to Dr. O’Connor, the animals will not be ready to be adopted until next week. There is a process to fill out an application online at www.alanimalservices.com.
By: Holly Hollman – City of Athens Communication Specialist
April 4, 2025
