Woman charged after nearly 100 animals rescued in Bledsoe County hoarding investigation

Bledsoe County Sheriff’s Department

UPDATE: Caroline Ruth Adkins was taken into custody on July 14, 2026 following the investigation into an animal hoarding case, according to the Bledsoe County Sheriff’s Department.

Adkins is charged with:

• Abuse of a vulnerable person
• Aggravated animal cruelty

Adkins is expected in court on August 3, 2026.

BLEDSOE COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) – The Bledsoe County Sheriff’s Office is responding to a severe animal hoarding case with assistance from the Rhea County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities say they have found close to 100 animals on the property, including dogs, cats, several litters of puppies and kittens, guinea pigs, birds, and possibly even a donkey and a chicken.

Officials said they are still counting as the rescue operation continues.

The Bledsoe County Sheriff said the investigation into the property has been ongoing for years.

“We’ve had calls, I guess, for the past several months. A lot of barking and people getting woke up in the middle of the night because of the animals,” the sheriff said. “Back in 2019, we dealt with this lady.”

The sheriff explained investigators were finally able to obtain a search warrant to enter the property.

“We finally got the things to get a search warrant to come onto the property.”

As deputies and volunteers continue removing animals from the property, officials are asking the public for help.

“If someone you know could take a few dogs, or if any shelter around could offer some of these dogs for adoption, we would greatly appreciate the help,” the sheriff said.

While the investigation remains active, the sheriff confirmed that criminal charges are expected.

“When we get done with the investigation, it’s going to go on for a few days because it’ll take us a few days to get all the animals out, but most definitely this lady will be charged.”

The rescued animals will be evaluated and receive any necessary medical treatment before being placed with shelters and rescue organizations across Tennessee.

News 12 will provide a list of the shelters and rescues caring for these animals once it becomes available for anyone interested in adopting, fostering, rescuing, or donating.

We will continue to follow this investigation and bring you the latest updates as more information becomes available.

Click here to inquire about an animal.