In a disturbing case of animal neglect, a couple from Dyersburg has been charged with aggravated cruelty to animals after 36 dogs were found in their residence under squalid conditions. As reported by Action News 5, David and Nicole Shipman are currently being held awaiting arraignment following a police discovery of the numerous dogs living in an environment saturated with urine, lacking adequate water, and with minimal food access.
The Dyersburg Police Department conducted the operation in conjunction with Dyer County Animal Control, managing to safely remove all the dogs from the premises. According to WREG, the conditions witnessed by the officers were dismal, with the dogs not only roaming amidst their waste but also confined in kennels in various parts of the home, including closets. Some animals, as depicted in released photos, were pointedly emaciated.
Each dog has become a count of cruelty in its own right, with the Shipmans facing 36 counts of aggravated animal cruelty. FOX13 Memphis notes that the police were acting on a tip forwarded by animal control concerning the situation at the residential property. The department revealed how some of the dogs were found without sufficient space, food, or water, highlighting the dire conditions that prompted their rescue.
The police have yet to release further details on the condition of the rescued animals or how long they may have been living in these degrading conditions. What remains clear, however, is the intention of local authorities to fully investigate and to hold to account those who egregiously fail to provide for animals under their care.
