Man arrested after Henderson County authorities rescue 12 abused dogs, find 4 dead

HENDERSON COUNTY, Texas (KLTV) – Authorities arrested an Athens man Friday after finding four dogs dead and still chained, along with 12 others in poor health.

Officers were called to a residence on PR 8502, south of Athens, for a report of animal cruelty, according to a news release from the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office.

When deputies arrived, they reported seeing four dogs that were dead but still chained. Twelve others were found emaciated, suffering from fleas, ear infections and fighting-related injuries, according to the Athens Animal Services Department, which took custody of the dogs. Rescuers said the dogs “displayed no vicious tendencies, requiring only food and compassion.”

The owner, Jerry Lane Fontenot, 59, was arrested. He was charged with 14 counts of negligent animal cruelty (misdemeanors) and four counts of animal cruelty resulting in death (felonies). His total bond was set at $26,000.

Athens Animal Services said its shelter is already at capacity and is asking for donations of dog food, toys, supplies or monetary contributions to help support their work. Find more information on their Facebook page.