First responders and rescuers are describing the scene as horrific. It’s a case that started last Wednesday, April 4th when a welfare check call was placed for a home at 2975 Lambert Road in Berea. Although technically in Rockcastle County, these are Berea addresses, in much of the area.
Officers say the initial call requested a welfare check on an older male that lived at the residence. Reportedly, the front door had been left partially open, and dogs were coming out of the home during the day. According to reports from the Rockcastle County Sheriff’s Department, around 9 that night, officers made entry to that home and discovered, what they described as “disgusting and unlivable conditions.” Dog feces were reported to be over 2 inches deep throughout the home. So deep in places, it prevented officers from opening some of the interior doors.
The next day, Thursday April 5th, several agencies responded with a search warrant for the home and to look for the residents. That effort turned into mainly a rescue mission of over 23 dogs, mostly larger breeds. The animals were taken to the Rockcastle County Animal Shelter. Rescuers, even though wearing hazmat materials, reported still being overcome by the stench and ammonia scent emanating from the deplorable conditions.
According to the Sheriff’s Department officials, they have spoken to the residents of the home, Frank Prickett and Tonya Smith, who they describe as being somewhat cooperative. Today, a criminal summons was issued for the couple on cruelty to animal charge second degree, 23 counts.
Aiding in the dog rescue were Brindle Ridge Fire Department, Rockcastle Emergency management, Rockcastle County Sheriff’s Department, and Rockcastle County Dog Warden Richard Gibbs. Rockcastle County Deputy Scott Weaver is heading up the case.
