Judge Rules Against Alpha-Tex Kennels in November 18 Trial

The West Texas Humane Society was granted legal custody of over 200 dogs Thursday by a Floyd County Judge in the wake of a controversial trial involving Lockney-based Alpha-Tex Kennels.

Justice of the Peace Tali Jackson ruled that breeders Mark and Sandra Smith would not get the approximately 260 dogs back, and ordered them to reimburse the Lubbock-based West Texas Humane Society $236,000. The West Texas Humane Society has been caring for many of the animals since they were taken from the facility in September. Many of the dogs remain in foster homes for the time being.

The Smith's had filed a lawsuit against Humane Society volunteers, a local TV station, and Floyd County Sheriff authorities for taking the dogs, and attempted to halt yesterday's trial. That motion was denied. After the verdict the Smiths and their attorney made no comments. The Smiths have 30 days to appeal the motion, but must pay $100,000 bond to do so.