NASHVILLE – A Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) Agricultural Crime Unit investigation led by Special Agent Clinton Brookshire has resulted in the recovery of a stolen horse and the arrests of two Monroe County women on felony theft charges.

The investigation began after a horse owner reported that two horses had gone missing from her property in June. During the investigation with a Monroe County Sheriff’s detective and Brookshire, agents determined that one of the horses – an Appaloosa valued at approximately $5,000 – had been taken from the property, advertised for sale online and sold to a buyer in northeast Tennessee. Through Brookshire’s investigation, the horse was located, recovered and safely returned to its owner.

Following the investigation, warrants were obtained for Shaleah Leann Peels and Kyleigh Marie Shell. Both surrendered to the Monroe County Justice Center and were charged with theft of property over $5,000 and attempted theft.

“Livestock theft is a serious crime that affects not only the animals involved but also the livelihoods of Tennessee producers,” Agriculture Commissioner Andy Holt said. “Our Agricultural Crime Unit is committed to protecting farmers and livestock owners across the state by thoroughly investigating these crimes and working with local law enforcement and prosecutors to hold offenders accountable.”

The investigation also resulted in the recovery of the money used to purchase the horse, which was returned to the buyer.

“Our special agents are dedicated to protecting Tennessee’s agricultural community and pursuing those who commit crimes against it,” ACU Chief Greg Whitehead said. “This case is an excellent example of the persistence and coordination required to recover stolen livestock and build a successful criminal case. We encourage livestock owners to report suspicious activity immediately so our agents can respond quickly.”