Former Louisiana Animal Control Director Charged With Theft

A former Animal Control Director in Louisiana is facing criminal charges for alleged livestock theft and malfeasance in office.

Stacey Alleman McKnight, of St. Landry Parish, has turned herself into authorities in the wake of charges being filed against her. Those charges include eight counts of theft, malfeasance in office, and injuring public records.

St. Landry Parish Sheriff Bobby Guidroz told KLFY that in October of last year, deputies responded to a complaint call on theft of livestock, public files, and parish property.

Through their investigation, the deputies found out three horses were missing from the animal control center. Also missing were several cattle/horse panels, fencing, and kennels. It was also discovered McKnight had posted pictures on her social media accounts of the horses at her residence.

McKnight was questioned by detectives and admitted to removing the following items from the animal control center, in addition to the horses:

• Four peacocks and four geese
• Several animal carriers
• Several case files
• Employee files
• Miscellaneous animal documentation
• Keys
• Shirt collar insignia pins
• Insurance cards for parish vehicles and logbook pertaining to donations belonging to St. Landry Animal Control

It was later determined McKnight didn't have the authority to take those items from the parish. She was booked on a $29,500 bond.