Madison Man Arrested for Animal Neglect and Abuse Charges

Property was searched following complaints from local businesses and residents in the area

                                           (PHOTOS COURTESY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT)

On Tuesday, August 12, 2025, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the Field Veterinarians of the Indiana Board of Animal Health conducted a search of the property located at 851 Virginia Avenue, Madison, Indiana in regard to allegations of animal neglect and abuse.

A search warrant was authorized by the Jefferson County Superior Court based upon information received from the City of Madison and Jefferson County Animal Control Officers, local businesses and the public regarding the welfare of dogs owned by John Scott. There have been numerous reports of dogs attacking and chasing individuals in the area surrounding Virginia Avenue, including at residential and business properties. Further, there have been multiple documented cases of dogs that have been diagnosed with canine parvovirus, Lyme disease and other ailments. Additionally, several dogs which have been previously removed from the property have been malnourished, with matted fur and were infested with ticks and fleas.

While on scene law enforcement encountered numerous emaciated dogs who were without potable water and their food was contaminated with feces. Dogs were located in kennels that were filled with feces to the point that the dogs were unable to safely stand. Dogs were found with skin infections and open wounds; some of the wounds were old and in the process of healing. Additionally, deceased dogs were located on the property in various locations and states of decomposition. During a search of 851 Virginia Avenue, law enforcement also located the remains of a deceased equine.

Thirteen dogs were confiscated from the property and there are still believed to be four (4) at-large. Jefferson County Sheriff Ben Flint asks if the public encounters any of these remaining dogs, to not approach them and to contact animal control immediately. Jefferson County Central Dispatch (812) 265-2648.

John Scott was on scene and taken into custody on preliminary charges of  (17) counts of Animal Neglect (Class A Misdemeanor), (17) counts of Cruelty to an Animal (Class A Misdemeanor), (1) count of Improper Disposal of a Dead Animal (Level 6 Felony), (10) counts of Sale or Transfer of a Diseased Animal (Level 6 Felony).

The dogs which were seized are now in the care of the Jefferson County Animal Shelter where their health is being evaluated. These dogs will remain in custody of the Jefferson County Animal Shelter. The dogs are receiving care from local veterinarians. These dogs are not available for adoption, but the Shelter would welcome donations of dog food (i.e. Purina Adult Dog Chow chicken flavor). The Shelter will post additional items that they may need on their Facebook page. The Animal Shelter will be closed to the public on August 13, 2025, in order to continue processing the dogs and to provide them with the care they need.

Assisting the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office were the following agencies:

Field Veterinarians from the Indiana Board of Animal Health

The Jefferson County Prosecutor’s Office

Jefferson County Animal Control

City of Madison Animal Control

City of Madison Building Inspector

Jefferson County Animal Shelter and Volunteers

Jefferson County Building Inspector

Jefferson County Health Department

Switzerland County Animal Control

Jennings County Animal Control

Dr. Kevin Watkins, DVM

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty.