On September 12th, 2023 Sergeant Matt White was notified that Wes Montooth with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture had inspected the horses owned Charles Massey. Additionally, Montooth had observed the horses and performed a body condition assessment. He had determined that probable cause existed for cruelty to animals charges.
This determination was based on the fact that the horses were tied up in a field and didn’t have access to food, water, or shelter. Sgt. White contacted ADA Bare and advised that a search and seizure warrant was needed to remove the horses.
Mr. Montooth coordinated with Horse Haven of TN to assist in the rescue. Sgt. Gregory and Deputy Eddie went to the residence and placed Charles in custody. He was served with the search warrant and informed that the horses would be removed from his residence. Four horses were located tied up in fields with no food or water and shelter. Two horses were located in a barn with no food. All of the horses showed signs of hunger. They were taken by Horse Haven to their sanctuary. Charles was charged with 6 counts of Cruelty to animals.
Horse Haven of Tennessee is a non profit that relies primarily on donations to assist their staff and volunteers with rescues like this one in Smith County and make daily care possible. The organization assists law enforcement officials by transporting and caring for horses that are seized during criminal abuse and neglect cases. The horses are then cared for while the cases are litigated in court. Since its formation in 1999, HHT has cared for more than 1,300 horses and remains the largest nonprofit equine welfare organization serving the entire state of Tennessee.
