DA Seeks Court Order to Adopt 29 Dogs From Lauderdale Co. Home, Barring Owners from Expenses

A Legal Battle Over 29 Confiscated Dogs in Lauderdale County

In a recent legal development, the Lauderdale County District Attorney has filed a complaint seeking court approval for the adoption of 29 dogs that were taken from a home in July. The case highlights serious concerns about animal welfare and the ongoing efforts to ensure these animals receive proper care.

The dogs were confiscated on July 1 from the residence of Steven Reynolds and Teresa Counce located on County Road 6 in Lauderdale County. At the time, the animals were found in deplorable conditions, with some living in metal-wired crates and lacking access to food and water. The situation was so severe that investigators described a strong odor of urine and feces inside the shed where the dogs were kept.

During their custody at the Florence-Lauderdale Animal Shelter, four puppies were born, adding to the number of animals under care. This incident has sparked a criminal investigation into Reynolds and Counce, who have been accused of failing to properly care for the animals.

The same property had previously been the site of a major seizure in January when 82 dogs were removed. This history raises further questions about the couple's ability to provide adequate care for their pets. The Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that this was the same location involved in the earlier confiscation.

As part of the legal action, the DA is requesting that Reynolds and Counce be held financially responsible for all expenses related to the housing, care, and provisions of the dogs. This includes costs incurred during their time at the shelter and any future care required if they are eventually adopted.

A lead investigator, Macy Hughes, provided a detailed account of the events during the July search. According to Hughes, Sergeant Dylan Hogue and herself forced entry into the shed and found 29 dogs in poor conditions. The report emphasized the lack of basic necessities and the unsanitary environment in which the animals were kept.

Before the July search, animal control had received multiple complaints about Counce having a large number of dogs again. In February, she was charged with cruelty to animals and agreed to relinquish ownership of the dogs to the animal shelter as part of a plea agreement. As part of this agreement, the sheriff’s office was granted the right to search the property without a warrant.

During the July search, investigators were unable to make contact with anyone at the house but could hear multiple dogs barking from a metal shed. Upon entering the shed, they found the 29 dogs in similar conditions to those seen during the previous seizure. Animal control officers took possession of the dogs to assess their medical conditions, and the investigation remains ongoing.

For those interested in fostering one of the dogs, pending court approval, the Florence-Lauderdale Animal Services has provided a form that must be completely filled out. This process ensures that potential foster homes meet the necessary standards to provide a safe and caring environment for the animals.

This case underscores the importance of community involvement in animal welfare and the need for continued vigilance against neglect and abuse. It also highlights the critical role of local authorities in ensuring that animals are protected and cared for according to the law.