Sullivan County couple charged with aggravated animal cruelty

A total of 13 dogs, 11 puppies, and two adult canines, have been removed from a property on Riddle Street in Kingsport and two people are charged with felony aggravated animal cruelty.

Sullivan County deputies could not locate Timothy Mays, 62, and Amy Beam, 38, on the scene when the animals were taken and the investigation started.

A county report said the dogs were infested with fleas while malnourished with ribs showing and bloated bellies, one dog was chained to a piece of sheet metal in poor condition, and no supplies of food or water nearby.

Mays and Beam were taken into custody Tuesday and are scheduled to be arraigned in Sessions Court.

(IMAGE: Property of Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office)