Tennessee Animal Hoarding (2026)

Key Facts

Cruelty statute: T.C.A. 39-14-202
Aggravated cruelty: Class E felony
Felony prison: 1-6 years
Forfeiture: Court-ordered animal seizure

Full Breakdown

T.C.A. 39-14-202 defines animal cruelty as intentionally or knowingly torturing, neglecting, or failing to provide necessary food, water, care, or shelter. Aggravated cruelty under T.C.A. 39-14-212 is a Class E felony. While Tennessee has no statute using the term hoarding, prosecutors charge severe neglect cases as cruelty when conditions endanger animal welfare. State law preempts any local attempt to decriminalize neglect.

Violations & Penalties

Misdemeanor cruelty: up to 11 months 29 days jail and $2,500 fine; aggravated cruelty: 1 to 6 years prison.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is animal hoarding a specific crime in Tennessee?

Tennessee does not have a hoarding-specific statute, but T.C.A. 39-14-202 cruelty and 39-14-212 aggravated cruelty allow prosecution when animals are neglected en masse.

Can a court order animal forfeiture in cruelty cases?

Yes. Tennessee courts may order forfeiture of mistreated animals and bar future ownership upon conviction under the cruelty statutes.

Tennessee Animal Cruelty and Hoarding Penalties