Dogs found dead at Sevier Co. home, owner arrested

TENNESSEE -- A Sevier County couple was charged with animal cruelty after two dead dogs were found at their home, along with 10 others not receiving proper care.

Thomas Leach was charged with 12 counts of animal cruelty. He was arrested and booked into the Sevier County Jail on $5,000 bond.

His wife Lea Leach faces the same charges, but was not arrested.

Sevier County Sheriff Ron Seals says his office received a call from a concerned citizen about dead dogs at a home located at 2788 Windfall Estates Drive.

Officers found two dead dogs at the home. One was in a dog kennel, while the other was tied to a pole.

Animal Control officers also found 10 additional dogs they say were not being properly cared for.

The owner could not be located at that time, so the remaining animals were removed and taken to the Sevier County Humane Society Shelter for evaluation.

The two deceased dogs were taken to the shelter for a necropsy to determine their time and cause of death.

After further investigation, it was determined the owners are Thomas Leach and Lea Leach.

A court hearing date has not yet been set.

(WATE - Aug 22 2013)