ANDERSON COUNTY, TN (WOKI / WVLT) – An Anderson County man is facing an animal cruelty charge after authorities say he repeatedly struck three dogs in Rocky Top.
According to a warrant obtained by WVLT News, officers responded Monday after receiving a complaint that Jeremy Reese, 48, had assaulted multiple dogs near the library in Rocky Top.
Investigators allege Reese hit all three dogs several times with a closed fist. The warrant further states that one of the dogs was slammed into a metal cart during the incident.
Authorities also claim Reese kicked and punched the animals as they attempted to move away from him.
After speaking with Reese and reviewing the circumstances surrounding the complaint, officers determined there was sufficient probable cause to make an arrest. The warrant states that Reese was taken into custody without incident and charged with animal cruelty.
Dogs Not Found After Arrest
Following Reese’s arrest, Anderson County Animal Control officers responded to the area in an effort to locate and assess the condition of the dogs.
However, according to the warrant, all three dogs had left the area before animal control arrived. The animals reportedly ran away, and despite a search of the surrounding area, officers were unable to locate them.
Because the dogs were not found, officials have not released information regarding their condition or whether they required veterinary treatment.
Investigation Continues
Animal cruelty charges are taken seriously under Tennessee law, and investigators may continue efforts to locate the animals involved to determine whether additional evidence or charges are warranted.
Authorities have not released information regarding Reese’s next court appearance, bond status, or whether additional charges could be filed as the investigation progresses.
What’s Next
Anderson County Animal Control and law enforcement officials may continue searching for the dogs and gathering information related to the incident. Reese is expected to face the animal cruelty charge in court at a later date, though no hearing date has been announced.
