Walker County Couple Charged After Dogs Found Dead, Others Abandoned in Hot Building
Arrest warrants have been issued for 48-year-old Ronald Lee Jackson and 43-year-old Melissa Sue Jackson after authorities discovered three deceased dogs and five others in critical condition inside a hot commercial building on McFarland Avenue.
The investigation began when Walker County Sheriff’s Deputies noticed an open door at a business located at 2234 McFarland Avenue. Upon entering the property, deputies discovered several dogs confined to a small room. Animal control officers responded and, after obtaining a search warrant, found three dead dogs and five others—one of which later died from its condition.
According to Walker County Animal Control Director Tyler Bishop, the room was saturated in urine and feces, swarming with flies and maggots, and had no food, water, or proper ventilation. Temperatures inside the building were dangerously high, with no air conditioning.
Among the surviving animals were two puppies and two mixed-breed Chihuahuas, all covered in waste. The puppies were diagnosed with Parvo, a contagious and potentially fatal disease.
Ronald Jackson told investigators the dogs had been moved to the business because he and his wife were living in a hotel. He later surrendered the animals to the Walker County Animal Shelter. However, the Jacksons have not turned themselves in.
Both Ronald and Melissa Jackson face multiple charges, including:
- 6 counts of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals
- 3 counts of Improper Disposal of a Dead Animal
- 2 counts of Misdemeanor Cruelty to Animals
- 2 counts of Abandonment of a Domestic Animal
- 4 counts of Violation of Rabies Control Law
If convicted on the six felony charges, each could face up to 30 years in prison, fines up to $90,000, or both.
The case remains under investigation.
