Two Face Felony Animal Cruelty Charges in Lockesburg

Two people are facing felony animal cruelty charges after multiple dead and neglected animals were reportedly found inside a Lockesburg residence earlier this year.

According to arrest affidavits released by the Sevier County Sheriff’s Office, Jessica Kaye Stone, 34, of Lockesburg, and Michael Clay Lamb, 39, of Nashville, are each charged with aggravated cruelty to a dog, cat or equine, a Class D felony.

The investigation began in May after a deputy was called to a residence on North Park Avenue following a report of possible animal cruelty.

According to the report, witnesses said the occupants had moved away several weeks earlier and allegedly left animals behind. Witnesses reportedly found multiple dead animals inside the home, with at least two found in each room. One witness estimated finding 11 dead cats and one dead dog.

The report also states a live dog ran from the residence, while a live cat found inside appeared to be sick. Witnesses described the floors as being covered with several inches of feces and urine.

Lamb appeared in Sevier County Circuit Court Aug. 6 and was released after posting a $5,000 bond. His next pretrial hearing is scheduled for Oct. 8.

An arrest warrant was issued for Stone on May 29 on two counts of aggravated cruelty to animals. Her case remains pending.

The charges are allegations, and both defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.