DOTHAN, Ala. — A Midland City woman is facing multiple animal cruelty charges after Dothan authorities say several dead cats and other animals left alive in enclosures were found inside a pet grooming business on Ross Clark Circle.
Brandi Leann Tyrrell, 41, of Midland City, has been charged with two felony counts of first-degree cruelty to a cat and six counts of cruelty to animals, according to the Dothan Police Department.
Authorities are now asking for the public’s help locating Tyrrell.
The charges follow an investigation that began Aug. 20, when the Dothan Animal Services Division received a call about a smell coming from an animal grooming business in the 3700 block of Ross Clark Circle.
According to police, Animal Services officers could smell an odor as they approached the business that led them to believe dead animals were inside.
Surrounding businesses had also complained about the odor.
Once inside, Animal Services officers found several cats dead. Other animals were found alive in enclosures inside the business.
Police said it was clear the animals had been left unattended for about a month.
Investigators were called to the scene and determined the business had not had active utilities since June.
According to police, several surrounding businesses told investigators Tyrrell, identified by authorities as the owner, had not been seen for at least three weeks before authorities arrived Aug. 20.
The investigation resulted in the two felony counts of first-degree cruelty to a cat and six additional animal cruelty charges against Tyrrell.
Anyone with information about Tyrrell’s location is asked to contact the Dothan Police Department at 334-793-0215 or Central Alabama CrimeStoppers at 334-215-STOP.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted through P3Tips.com.
