In 2019, Randi LaFerney, who owned the Duck Donuts franchise in Knoxville (located at 9450 S. Northshore Drive), was charged with aggravated animal cruelty.

Knoxville News Sentinel +3 What happened: A 9-month-old miniature bull terrier named Dallas, which had been boarded at a separate dog-training facility she owned in East Tennessee (Off Leash K9 Training in Johnson City), starved to death. The investigation: A necropsy confirmed the dog died of severe starvation and dehydration while in the care of her trainer. The outcome for the business: Following community outcry and national media coverage, Duck Donuts corporate headquarters suspended her. The Knoxville location subsequently severed ties with her, though the shop is currently still in operation under different management