MEMPHIS, TN (abc24.com) - It's been two years since three former workers at the Memphis Animal Shelter were arrested during a raid on the facility. Ernest Alexander, Angela Middleton, and Tina Quattlebaum face animal abuse charges but to date, the case hasn't been tried.
They appeared in court Thursday, November 3, 2011 just to have the case reset for early 2012. Attorneys for the former workers told abc24.com the state wants to bring in new evidence so they need more time to prepare for court. In the meantime, the case remains at a standstill.
"There's been more discovery that's been provided to the defense in this matter and we need more time to review that discovery,” said Quattlebaum’s attorney, William Massey.
Investigators told abc24.com three dogs starved to death in the shelter's care. Disturbing photos of one animal sparked outraged in the community. The attorney for veterinarian Angela Middleton believes the case has turned political.
"It's been very frustrating," said Middelton’s attorney, Edward Bronston.
All three lawyers told abc24.com since the 2009 raid, the shelter continued to be run poorly and their clients didn't do a thing wrong.
"My client never had any trouble in her life. So yes this has been very hard and trying for her but she's a strong lady and she will persevere,” said Massey.
"Doctor Middleton has devoted her life to care for animals and to be in this circumstance has been very difficult," said Bronston. "We just hope that the truth comes out."
Both attorneys said the latest delay won't hurt or help their case either way. Neither has seen the new information discovered by prosecutors. Middleton was the vet on staff in 2009. She filed a civil suit in federal court this summer. She claims she was wrongfully fired and was made a "scapegoat" for the shelter's administration. Her termination letter claimed she failed to ensure the animals were properly cared for.
