Protesters Demand Reform at Rockcastle County Animal Shelter as State Police Launch Investigation

Rockcastle Co. Aminal Shelter (C) 2005 Rockcastle Fiscal Court All Rights Resrved. 

MOUNT VERNON, Ky. (SPA) — A growing outcry over alleged mistreatment of animals at the Rockcastle County Animal Shelter has triggered public protest, a state police investigation, and renewed calls for long-overdue reform.

On Monday, demonstrators gathered outside the Rockcastle County Courthouse, pressing county officials to take immediate action following shocking claims of neglect and abuse at the shelter. The protest was spearheaded by animal rescuer Hailie Garcia, whose viral Facebook post last week described what she called a “nightmare” inside the facility.

The post, shared thousands of times and accompanied by disturbing images and videos, recounted filthy conditions, extreme temperatures, mass euthanasia, and missing or deceased animals. Garcia alleged that the problems are not new but part of a pattern spanning years.

“For years, rescuers and animal advocates have fought for change. For years, nothing has changed. In fact, it only seems to have gotten worse,” Garcia wrote. “Back in 2008, a local article exposed the shelter for placing live puppies in garbage bags and leaving them in a freezer to die. That was 17 years ago. Today, in 2025, similar horrific conditions appear to remain.”

Garcia said she made her most recent discovery on August 20, when she visited the shelter to identify animals she could secure for rescue. While photographing kennels, she reported hearing howling near the building’s rear.

“I followed the noise … it was coming from the freezer—the same freezer where euthanized animals are stored,” Garcia wrote. “Inside, I found a dog on the cold floor, not even bagged. The body was not yet stiff. Blood stained the floor and walls. This dog had probably JUST died.”

Her account has since galvanized local and statewide advocates. A petition demanding the immediate termination of the shelter’s director, increased funding, additional staff, and humane conditions has gathered more than 2,500 signatures.

Initially, protesters planned to demonstrate outside the animal shelter itself. But when Garcia arrived Monday morning, she was met by law enforcement, who informed her the facility would be closed for the day.

Rockcastle County Judge Executive Howell Holbrook later confirmed that security cameras were being installed at the shelter and that the Kentucky State Police (KSP) had opened a formal investigation.

“As soon as the cameras are up and going, the shelter will be open back up,” Holbrook said in a statement.

KSP Trooper Scottie Pennington confirmed that investigators are reviewing the allegations but cautioned that the inquiry remains in its early stages.

Meanwhile, Garcia has vowed to continue her efforts. She announced plans to remain outside the courthouse throughout the week to collect additional signatures and to press officials, including Governor Andy Beshear, Judge Executive Holbrook, and the Rockcastle County Magistrates, to act.

“I want all Kentucky animal laws to be followed. I want these animals to stop living in the conditions that they are, and I want them to have better change,” Garcia told FOX 56. “If we can get enough citizens to stand up and demand that this stops, change may actually happen for once.”

As the investigation unfolds, protesters say they will keep the pressure on county leaders until meaningful reforms are enacted.

The petition remains open to the public, offering a direct avenue for citizens to demand accountability and better standards of care for Rockcastle County’s animals.

Cliick hereto view and/or sign the petition. (Opens in new window)