10/11/2026
In March 2023, our office received several complaints regarding Chihuahuas living in two townhouses on Chippendale Circle. According to the reporting parties, both homes were in unsanitary and deplorable condition. Photos of the interior of one home were also submitted to our office.
Our team responded and was able to make contact with one of the residents. When asked how many dogs were inside the home, the resident claimed he did not know. He voluntarily agreed to surrender a few of the dogs. However, once inside, our investigator quickly realized the home was unsafe for both people and animals. F***s covered the floors, and the strong smell of ammonia caused the investigator’s eyes and nose to burn.
We subsequently applied for and was granted a search warrant for both townhouses, including the seizure of all dogs found inside.
During the ex*****on of the warrant, our team located the female resident hiding inside the home. She told our investigators that she “knew this day was coming.”
In total, 46 Chihuahuas were rescued from these unsafe and unsanitary conditions. Although most of the dogs were in relatively good body condition, they were living in filth and breeding among themselves. Several sick puppies required emergency veterinary care, but sadly, they did not survive.
Both owners, Stefanie Abner and James Kieckhefer, were charged by our agency with multiple counts of animal cruelty under local law. Now that both criminal cases have been resolved in court, we can share this case with the public.
Once the chihuahuas became our property, they were transferred to our partner agency, the Lexington Humane Society, to begin the next chapter of their lives. With the care and support of our partners, these dogs had the opportunity to find what every animal deserves: a safe place to call home and a family to love them.
For our team, one of the most rewarding parts of this work is seeing the transformation these animals experience. The chihuahuas went from living in dark, dreary, and miserable conditions to enjoying life in safe, loving homes. Knowing they now have the chance to live happy, healthy lives is a reminder of why this work matters.
As always, our animals depend on community members to be their voice. If you suspect animal abuse or neglect, please speak up. Your report could make all the difference.
To report suspected animal abuse or neglect, call our dispatcher at 859-255-9033.
Together, we can help protect the animals who cannot speak for themselves.
