Lee County Sheriff’s Deputies investigated and determined two dogs were in dire need of medical care and appropriate shelter on January 23, 2026. The dogs were seized by the Sheriff’s Office and placed into the care of PAW Animal Shelter, according to a department press release. An investigation was completed and led to the arrest of Jesse Elihu Burdette. Burdette was charged with two counts of Animal Neglect Causing Injury and two counts of No Rabies Vaccinations, and jailed. On February 10,2026, both dogs were court ordered to be surrendered to the custody of the Lee County Sheriff who transferred custody to PAW Animal Shelter to continue to receive the appropriate medical care. The Lee County Sheriff’s Office thanks the Lee County Attorney’s Office and PAW Animal Shelter for their assistance in this case.
A charge is merely an accusation; a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.