In an extensive animal cruelty investigation, Tommy Dean Douglas has been arrested and charged after authorities in Tate County, Mississippi seized 33 dogs and an iguana from his property, as reported by FOX13 Memphis. The Tate County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant this past Saturday at Douglas's residence located on Prichard Road, Coldwater MS, uncovering what was described as a puppy mill operation.
Douglas faces multiple charges consisting of aggravated animal cruelty, simple assault on a law enforcement officer, and disorderly conduct, after he allegedly assaulted a deputy during the arrest. He is held on a $50,000 bond, at the Tate County Jail. As detailed by WREG, the shelter managing the seized animals has now experienced an emergency due to overcrowding and are requesting donations and assistance from the community.
“Some of the dogs were severely malnourished and on the brink of death. It was a really sad situation,” said Tate County Sheriff Luke Shepherd in a statement obtained by Action News 5. Most of the dogs, which include American and French bulldogs, are now receiving medical attention for various health issues, being cared for at the Senatobia-Tate County Animal Shelter, or with local voluntary fosters. According to Sheriff Shepherd, some of the animals were found in severe malnourishment and close to death. The shelter, overwhelmed by the number of rescued animals, has issued a Facebook S.O.S. for aid, stating they have no room for more intakes at present.
Detective Riley Cole, leading the investigation, shared with Action News 5 that Douglas, also known as "Tommy Real Dogman Douglas" on Facebook, would promise to train or breed dogs for clients but failed to provide the services and kept the animals in deplorable conditions. Some of the dogs' rightful owners, believed to be out of state, are currently being contacted for reclamation. Anyone looking to support the efforts can donate items such as Purina Dog Chow Beef and other supplies at the shelter located at 909 E F Hale Jr. Drive, Senatobia, Mississippi 38668.
