Tulsa Animal Cruelty Investigation Leads to Second Arrest and 39 Charges
Tulsa Animal Cruelty Investigation Leads to Second Arrest and 39 Felony Charges
The ongoing Tulsa animal cruelty investigation involving Mercy Sakes 2nd Chance Dog Rescue has resulted in a second arrest after authorities discovered additional neglected animals at another Tulsa residence. Sasha Smith, identified as an owner of the rescue organization, was arrested Saturday, November 7, and charged with 39 felony counts of animal cruelty involving animals found at two properties connected to the rescue.
The latest development follows the November 4 arrest of Marcia Reynolds, who faces 29 counts of animal cruelty after investigators discovered 19 deceased dogs and 24 surviving animals at a residence near 12th Street and Memorial Drive. A subsequent investigation led officers to a second property near 12300 East 16th Street, where authorities recovered 14 additional dogs and one cat living in severely neglected conditions.
Tulsa Animal Cruelty Investigation Expands to Second Rescue Location
The Tulsa Police Department and Animal Control officers expanded their investigation after learning that Smith was leasing another residence in east Tulsa. Officers visited the property and heard dogs barking inside, prompting investigators to obtain and execute a search warrant on November 5, 2026.
Inside the residence, authorities discovered 14 dogs and one cat living among accumulated animal waste, stacked metal crates and unsanitary conditions. Several dogs were reportedly emaciated, with visible ribs and sores, while others were roaming the house without access to food or water.
The Tulsa Police Department reported that the second property was connected to the ongoing investigation involving Mercy Sakes 2nd Chance Dog Rescue. Following a review with the Tulsa County District Attorney's Office, investigators established probable cause for Smith's arrest on 39 felony animal cruelty counts, representing dogs meeting statutory cruelty criteria across both properties.
Smith was taken into custody without incident after officers arranged to meet with her. Authorities also reported that she relinquished ownership of the animals recovered from the second residence, allowing them to receive care and evaluation.
Second Arrest Follows Discovery of 19 Dead Dogs at Tulsa Rescue
The investigation began November 4 when animal welfare officers responded to a residence near 12th Street and Memorial Drive. Authorities encountered a strong odor and heavy insect activity before entering the property, where they discovered 22 living dogs, two living cats and approximately 19 deceased dogs.
Investigators described severely unsanitary conditions, including accumulated trash, animal waste and metal crates stacked throughout the residence. Several deceased dogs were found inside crates, while surviving animals showed signs of neglect and malnutrition.
Marcia Reynolds, who lived at the property, was arrested and charged with 29 counts of animal cruelty. Her arrest preceded the discovery of the additional animals at Smith's residence, bringing the combined number of charges against the two women to 68 felony counts.
Under Oklahoma's animal cruelty statute, individuals may face criminal penalties for willfully or maliciously depriving animals of necessary food, water or care. The allegations against Smith and Reynolds remain subject to the criminal court process, and neither arrest constitutes a conviction.
Tulsa Animal Services and Humane Society Care for Surviving Animals
The investigation has resulted in the recovery of 39 living animals across both properties, including 36 dogs and three cats. Animal welfare personnel removed the surviving animals for medical evaluations, treatment and continued monitoring after investigators documented conditions involving severe neglect.
Tulsa Animal Services and the Humane Society of Tulsa have assisted with the care of animals recovered during the investigation. Severely malnourished dogs may require specialized nutritional rehabilitation, veterinary treatment and extended observation before they are healthy enough for permanent placement.
The Humane Society of Tulsa provides rescue, rehabilitation and adoption assistance for animals in need, working alongside local animal welfare organizations when emergency situations require additional resources.
The case has also raised concerns about the oversight of privately operated animal rescue organizations, particularly when large numbers of animals are housed at residential properties. Investigators continue examining the circumstances surrounding the animals' deaths and the conditions at both locations.
The Tulsa animal cruelty investigation has now resulted in two arrests, 68 felony charges and the recovery of 39 surviving animals from properties connected to Mercy Sakes 2nd Chance Dog Rescue. As authorities continue investigating the alleged neglect and deaths of approximately 19 dogs, animal welfare organizations are working to provide medical care and recovery services for the animals rescued from both locations.
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