An anonymous tip on May 19 sent narcotics detectives to a Pearl River–area home in the 64000 block of Highway 3081, where they say they found two small children living in unfit conditions and nine dogs and five cats that appeared neglected. Inside, officers report finding marijuana packaged for distribution, and two adults living at the residence were taken into custody. The visit also triggered calls to child-protective services and the parish animal-control team. St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office
According to the sheriff's office, detectives seized suspected marijuana packaged for distribution inside the home. The Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services was contacted, and St. Tammany Parish Animal Control responded to remove the animals for care and evaluation. St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office
Charges and arrests
As reported by FOX 8, 32-year-old Kassi Kandice King and 31-year-old Jeanluc Maser Saucier were arrested and booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center. The pair face multiple counts, including cruelty to juveniles, 14 counts of animal cruelty, possession with intent to distribute a Schedule I controlled substance and illegal use of a controlled substance in the presence of a minor. FOX 8 also reported that King was booked on a contempt charge.
Children and animals removed
Authorities say the two children were found in what they described as unfit living conditions, and the animals on the property appeared neglected. The sheriff's office reports that the Department of Children & Family Services was notified, while St. Tammany Parish Animal Control took custody of the nine dogs and five cats so they could be evaluated and cared for off-site. St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office
Northshore pattern
Tip-driven probes have led to similar rescues on the Northshore in recent months. In April, deputies removed 16 dogs during a search in the Covington area, according to WWL. The parish has also moved this year to tighten animal rules, approving an ordinance that would require spay or neuter for animals impounded in certain cases, a policy change covered by WDSU.
Legal notes
Louisiana law defines "cruelty to juveniles" under RS 14:93, an offense that can carry up to 10 years in prison, with harsher penalties when very young victims are involved. Animal-cruelty crimes, along with rules for seizing and disposing of mistreated animals, are found under RS 14:102 and related sections of the criminal code. LA Rev. Stat. § 14:93 (RS 14:102 et seq.)
Both suspects remain in custody facing the charges listed by authorities, and court dates have not yet been published. Local officials say the investigation is ongoing. FOX 8
