PCSO investigates death of multiple cattle (update)

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An investigation into possible animal cruelty, led by the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division, assisted by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, and Tennessee Highway Patrol Critical Incident Response Team, began Feb. 27, 2021 after deputies responded to the report of several carcasses near Lake Hill Road, in Monterey.

Initially, PCSO deputies responded to the Lake Hill Road area in reference to cows being shot. As the investigation ensued, it was apparent that several carcasses were lying in the field. Investigators from the PCSO, assisted by TDA’s Agricultural Crime Unit, observed that it appeared most of the cattle had died as the result of starvation, which was confirmed by the Tennessee State Veterinarian’s Office.

Putnam County Sheriff Eddie Farris stated, “Growing up on a farm, I know how important the reputation of our local farmers and agriculture is in Putnam County, and I want the public to know that this is an isolated incident, not only in our community but for the entire state and is not an event that represents the farming community in Putnam County. Putnam County is highly respected in the farming and agriculture community. It should also be noted that over the years multiple Tennessee Department of Agriculture commissioners have come from our county. We will continue to support and assist with our local farmers and agriculture community to ensure an event like this doesn’t happen again.”

Communication between local agriculture organizations has been a key component throughout the course of this investigation.

Farm Bureau, which heads up the local agriculture community, along with the Cattlemen’s Association, jointly stated, “The recent news and ongoing investigation of the livestock operation in our community has been incredibly troubling for all of us. Our farmers take great pride in providing the best care for their animals and ensuring their wellbeing. We appreciate and commend local law enforcement, the Agricultural Crime Unit of the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, Farm Animal Care Coalition of Tennessee and local farmers for their swift and appropriate actions responding to this incident. We encourage law enforcement to continue their thorough investigation and if warranted, pursue charges to the fullest extent of the law.”

At the conclusion of the investigation, law enforcement and others will be presenting their findings to the Putnam County Grand Jury.

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