Rescue neglect - 374 animals seized
Cazenovia, WI (US)Incident Date: Tuesday, May 19, 2009
County: Richland
Charges: Misdemeanor
Disposition: Alleged
Alleged: Jennifer Petkus
In the early morning hours of May 19, the Humane Society of the United States and a cadre of animal welfare groups assisted the Richland County Sherriff's Department with the seizure of more than 300 animalsâ€"including dogs, horses, fowl, livestock and other small animalsâ€"from the Thyme and Sage Ranch.
The facility, located in Cazenovia, Wisc., operated as a non-profit "rescue" operation and served as Animal Control for Richland County.
Sheriff's deputies served the warrant after an investigation set into motion by HSUS investigators, who had received numerous tips about cruel conditions at the property.
Jennifer Petkus, founder of Thyme and Sage Ranch, was charged May 21 at Richland County courthouse with 11 counts of misdemeanor animal cruelty and five forfeitures. Misdemeanors included improper shelter and mistreating animals by intent or negligent violation. Ms. Petkus signed a $10,000 signature bond. Arraignment is set for May 29 at 1 p.m.
Approximately 374 animals were discovered during the execution of the search warrant, led by the Richland County Sheriff's department. The ASPCA is evaluating animals found at the site and collecting evidence for the prosecution of the criminal case, as well as lending the services of its special forensic cruelty investigation team, comprised of disaster animal rescuers and field service investigators.
A Group Effort
In conjunction with the Dane County Humane Society, The HSUS presented the evidence to the Richland County District Attorney's office, which then reached out to the ASPCA's forensics team for assistance collecting evidence.
Other participating agencies include the American Humane Association, which provided assistance with animal handling, and United Animal Nations, which provided sheltering assistance.
The Dane County Humane Society acted as the lead local animal agency and called on the Wisconsin Federated Humane Societies for more support. Finally, PetSmart Charities® sent its Emergency Relief Waggin' full of donated goods such as wire crates, dog food and medical supplies.
A Shocking Scene
A disturbing scene greeted rescuers arriving at the property: Breeds ranging from Scottish Terriers to Labrador mixes, some suffering from serious medical ailments, severely matted fur and serious skin conditions, languished inside feces-ridden, unheated barns and outdoor structures.
Rescuers got to work right away. The ASPCA's "Mobile Animal Crime Scene Investigation Unit" and forensics team evaluated the animals and collected evidence for a criminal animal cruelty prosecution. The ailing animals were then whisked to a nearby emergency shelter set up by The HSUS and UAN at Dane County Humane Society for in-depth examinations and any necessary immediate medical care by a team of veterinarians.
Calling on The Public
Any member of the public who believes their lost pet may have ended up at the Thyme and Sage Ranch should submit information on giveshelter.org identifying their lost pet. Local officials also urged the public to contact the Richland County District Attorney's Office with personal experiences with the Thyme and Sage Ranch that may be relevant to this case. References
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