Giles County, TN (trfnews.i234.me) – A shocking case is unfolding out of Giles County, Tennessee, involving James and Kelly Hewitt, formerly of Lancaster, Minnesota. James Hewitt is a former Kittson County Sheriff’s Deputy and also previously served in Iraq training police forces.
According to the Giles County Sheriff’s Office, both Hewitts are now facing multiple serious charges, including:
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Trafficking for forced labor
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Involuntary labor servitude
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Three counts of animal cruelty
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One count of aggravated animal cruelty
Authorities say the investigation was a massive collaboration between 15 agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations. During the operation, eight victims of varying ages were rescued and safely relocated.
The Sheriff’s Office praised the efforts, stating the case could not have progressed without the expertise and cooperation of all agencies involved. More details, including formal court filings, are expected to emerge next week.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.