Bay Minette Woman Arrested After Deputies Find Dead Dog, Severely Malnourished Animals

BAY MINETTE, Ala. (BuzzReport)— A Bay Minette woman is facing an aggravated animal cruelty charge after Baldwin County deputies responding to a welfare complaint allegedly discovered a dead dog, severely malnourished animals and multiple animals without food or clean drinking water.

According to the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, deputies with the Rural Enforcement Area responded on August 31, 2026, to a residence in the Bay Minette area after receiving a report concerning the welfare of animals on the property.

What deputies encountered during the investigation prompted an arrest.

Investigators located a deceased dog inside a chain-link kennel, according to authorities. Deputies also discovered 15 additional dogs on the property, with the majority confined inside two other kennels.

Authorities said several of the surviving dogs appeared to be severely malnourished. Deputies also reported that, at the time of the investigation, the animals did not have food or access to clean drinking water.

The condition of the animals led deputies to determine that there was probable cause to take criminal action against the property’s owner.

Jessica Phillips of Bay Minette was arrested and charged with Aggravated Animal Cruelty.

The surviving dogs were removed from the property and placed in the care of Baldwin County Animal Control. A cat also found on the property was taken into custody. Officials said the animals were provided appropriate care, including veterinary evaluation and treatment.

The case highlights the serious consequences that can follow when animals are allegedly left in conditions that threaten their health and survival. Investigators will now work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the animals’ condition and the death of the dog found inside the kennel.

The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges could be filed if warranted as investigators continue examining the case.