Corbin woman arrested for animal cruelty, endangering children

A Corbin woman is facing 22 counts of animal cruelty and an additional three charges of endangering the welfare of a minor following an investigation into the conditions inside her Short Lane home Wednesday.

According to Laurel County Sheriff Fred Yaden, Deputy Jason Back responded to a call of alleged animal abuse at 124 Short Lane in the Corbin area. When he arrived, he discovered numerous animals that appeared to be malnourished and living in unfit conditions. Upon further investigation, Back found dogs living inside the home and more caged in the backyard.

Back contacted Jennifer Adkins, the homeowner, and asked her to return to the residence. Following his investigation, she was arrested on a warrant for failure to appear in court on previous charges. He also charged her with the additional animal cruelty and child welfare offenses.

In all, 13 dogs and a cat were removed from the interior of the residence. Seven additional dogs and a goat were taken by authorities from the property. Police say some of the dogs appeared to be afflicted with mange. Cages holding some of the dogs outside "appeared to have never been maintained and had a substantial amount of droppings" inside them.

Back said the interior of the residence was covered with dog urine and droppings as well.

Police contacted the Laurel County Health Department regarding the living conditions in the home and health risks posed by the large amount of animal waste. The health department is evaluating the condemnation of the property.

Social Services was also contact and the children living in the home were removed.

Adkins is a former member of the Knox-Whitley Animal Shelter Board of Directors. She was lodged in the Laurel County Detention Center.