Key Points:
- Deputies responded to a possible suicide attempt and discovered malnourished animals in sub-freezing temperatures.
- Five people were arrested, and a sixth person is set to face charges.
- Veterinary staff rescued 12 dogs and 13 cats from the home.
Blount County, Tennessee – On January 8, 2025, Blount County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a possible suicide attempt at a home on Patterson Road. While assisting with the call, deputies discovered dozens of malnourished cats and dogs, some trapped outside in sub-freezing temperatures.
The outside temperature was approximately 25°F, and the animals were found in deplorable conditions. Deputies observed a small puppy in a crate on the front porch, with visible ribs and urine and feces covering the crate. Another dog was found in a separate, smaller crate on the porch.
Animal control officers were called to the scene and found additional animals in similar conditions. Five dogs were tied up to leads outside without shelter, food, or water. Seven cats were confined to the porch using tarps, with the floor covered in cat urine and feces.
Five people connected to the case were arrested on January 9, 2025. The suspects, Lynn Youngen, Albert Youngen, William Youngen, Julia Youngen, and Madison Huskey, face multiple counts of animal cruelty and aggravated animal cruelty. A sixth person, Kari Cross, is also set to face charges but has not been arrested yet.
Veterinary staff helped take in 12 dogs and 13 cats that were rescued from the home. The animals were extremely underweight and dehydrated. All six people at the home will face additional misdemeanor offenses for the other animals found.
Leave a Comment