Punish Couple Accused of Child Labor Trafficking and Aggravated Animal Cruelty

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Target: Brent Cooper, District Attorney for Tennessee’s 22nd District

Goal: Hold former deputy and wife accountable for alleged animal and child abuse.

Another person who once worked in law enforcement has been accused of animal cruelty. This time, the allegations center around Edward Hewitt – a former sheriff’s deputy – and his wife, Kelli Hewitt. Following an investigation for a different reported crime, the couple was charged with several counts of animal cruelty, including aggravated animal cruelty.

Authorities found dozens of animals, mostly dogs, with apparent limited or no access to water or food. At least one of the dogs was allegedly anemic, riddled with fleas, and near death. But the gravity of the allegations does not end with the animals involved. The investigation had originally centered around the presence of a girl said to be from a Haitian orphanage within the house. According to filed charges of involuntary labor servitude and trafficking for forced labor, the couple had reportedly concealed the girl and made her perform manual labor for their benefit.

Sign the petition below to demand prosecutors fully pursue all charges brought against these alleged abusers.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear DA Cooper,

Individuals who served in law enforcement should have a special obligation to not only uphold the rule of law but to follow it faithfully. James Edward Hewitt, a sheriff’s deputy of 15 years, cannot claim ignorance of the disturbing charges brought against him for allegedly harboring a Haitian orphan and forcing her into servitude. Nor can he refute knowledge of the serious nature of the multiple animal neglect and cruelty charges he and his wife face – charges that involve dozens of reportedly emaciated animals.

Please do not dismiss the importance of the latter charges, as someone who could potentially hurt so many vulnerable living beings is not someone who should ever receive a slap on the wrist. Prosecute each and every charge to the fullest extent, and seek maximum penalties in the event of a conviction.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo Credit: Sam Lion

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