Monroe County, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – Two Monroe County women have been charged following an investigation into the theft and online sale of a horse taken from a local farm, according to the Tennessee Department of Agriculture.
Officials said the case began last month after a horse owner reported that two horses had gone missing from her property.
During the investigation, agents with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Crime Unit and local detectives determined that one of the animals, an Appaloosa horse valued at approximately $5,000, had been removed from the property and advertised for sale online.
Horse Tracked to Northeast Tennessee
Investigators discovered the horse had been sold to a buyer in Northeast Tennessee.
Authorities were able to locate the animal, recover it and safely return it to its rightful owner.
Officials also recovered the money used to purchase the horse and returned those funds to the buyer.
Two Women Charged
As a result of the investigation, authorities charged:
- Shaleah Leann Peels
- Kyleigh Marie Shell
Both women are from Monroe County.
According to the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, the suspects have been charged with:
- Theft of property over $5,000
- Attempted theft
Additional details about the circumstances surrounding the theft have not been released.
Agriculture Commissioner Calls Livestock Theft Serious Crime
Tennessee Agriculture Commissioner Andy Holt said livestock theft can have a significant impact on farmers and animal owners.
“Livestock theft is a serious crime that affects not only the animals involved but also the livelihoods of Tennessee producers,” Holt said.
“Our Agricultural Crime Unit is committed to protecting farmers and livestock owners across the state by thoroughly investigating these crimes and working with local law enforcement and prosecutors to hold offenders accountable.”
Investigation Highlights Agricultural Crime Enforcement
The Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Crime Unit works with local law enforcement agencies to investigate crimes involving livestock, farm equipment and other agricultural property.
Officials said the successful recovery of the horse and the buyer’s money demonstrates the importance of reporting suspicious activity and agricultural thefts promptly.
The case remains under the jurisdiction of the agencies involved as court proceedings move forward.
