In February 2025, Deputy Brock Echols of the Blount County Sheriff's Office, who also serves as the Animal Control Deputy, responded to a report of loose dogs and animal abuse on Sawmill Road in the Blountsville area of Blount County. Upon arriving at the residence, Deputy Echols observed ten to fifteen dogs running freely on the property, as well as approximately ten additional dogs confined in cages. Deputy Echols attempted to contact the residents but was unsuccessful. Through an investigation into the property and its ownership, Deputy Echols discovered that the owners resided in a neighboring county. A neighboring agency attempted to reach the owners but reported no success; however, they noted hearing what sounded like twenty dogs inside the residence. Deputy Echols subsequently spoke with the owners by phone and arranged to meet them at the property on Sawmill Road.

Deputy Echols inspected the property and discovered over twenty-five dogs. Almost every dog was suffering from mange and severe malnutrition. Some had open wounds and various skin conditions. The animals lacked access to clean water and sufficient food. In certain areas where the dogs were found, there were more than twelve inches of feces. The owners assisted Deputy Echols in entering the residence, where he located eight additional dogs. The living conditions in the residence were unsuitable, with standing water in the basement where the dogs were found. The animals were surrounded by floating trash and feces. Additionally, five puppies were discovered that the owners were unaware of prior to entering with Deputy Echols.

The Blount County Animal Adoption Center dispatched a representative to assist Deputy Echols with the large number of dogs on the property. During the ongoing investigation, Deputy Echols discovered an additional fifteen dogs and one deceased puppy outside. As of March 12, a total of forty-three dogs had been removed from the property, and several were being euthanized due to irreversible health issues. Criminal charges are pending and the investigation is ongoing.

It is essential to spay and neuter your dogs and cats. Heartbreaking scenes like these must be avoided. It is inhumane to allow dogs to merely exist; they require care and nurturing to ensure their health and well-being. We commend Deputy Echols for the dedication he and the Blount County Animal Adoption Center demonstrate in caring for the animals in our communities. If you are aware of similar situations or instances of animal abuse in your area, please contact Deputy Echols so he can help protect these animals.