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Man charged with stealing SPCA dogs

By Kelly Townsend
The Times-Journal

Published February 4, 2008

A Centre man now faces third-degree burglary charges after he allegedly took three poodles worth at least $1,800 each from the DeKalb County SPCA in January.

Glen Edward Mitchell, 47, was picked up on a DeKalb County warrant Thursday, according to Fort Payne Police Chief David Walker.

Walker said the three poodles, previously rescued from a Henagar puppy mill and stolen from the DeKalb County SPCA, were then rescued from another puppy mill in Cherokee County last week.

SPCA Executive Director Freda Waters said as soon as the three poodles were found an investigation was conducted into getting the puppy mill cleaned up.

Through an investigation with Fort Payne police, warrants were issued for Mitchell’s arrest. He was arrested at his Centre by Cherokee County deputies.

Waters said the other animals being kept there were also in deplorable conditions. She said at least 20 other animals were found at the home, and police are still investigating if the animals had been reported.

Waters said it is believed Mitchell took bolt cutters and cut the fence to get inside the SPCA. She said she received a tip that led to Mitchell.

“We actually had some information that led to a previous address, but when we got there we found out that he hadn’t lived in that location in three years,” Waters said.

But further investigation and with the help of the community, Waters said Mitchell was found.

DeKalb County SPCA officials reported break-ins on three successive nights – from Jan. 14-16 – and seven dogs stolen among 68 animals rescued from the alleged puppy mill in Henagar.

After an investigation by police and the SPCA, Sheriff’s deputies arrested Linda Wallin, 68 of Henagar, on Jan. 11, charging her with cruelty to animals. Nearly 70 adult dogs and puppies were taken to the SPCA facility in Fort Payne.

“Two of the dogs were schnauzers, which sell for about $500 each, and three were poodles, which can bring $1,500-$1,800 each,” Waters said.

Waters said the two schnauzers have not been found.

Mitchell was booked in the DeKalb County jail on a $7,500 bond.

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