Backyard breeder - 30 animals seized
Crestwood, IL (US)Incident Date: Friday, Jun 19, 2009
County: Cook
Disposition: Alleged
Alleged: Danny Vithoulkas
Thirty animals were rescued from an unlicensed breeder who operated out of an automotive business in southwest suburban Crestwood, according to the Cook County sheriff's office.
Danny Vithoulkas, 44, of Oak Lawn, was charged with nearly a dozen counts of animal-related crimes following an investigation where Vithoulkas offered to sell undercover officers two 7-week old German Shepherd puppies. The charges include cruel treatment to animals, selling dogs younger than 8 weeks old, operating as a dog dealer without a license, and possession of dangerous animals.
"The animals were being housed in inhumane conditions in a garage and in a junkyard type area in back of the shop. Many of the dogs appeared ungroomed, with matted and dirty fur as well as fly-bites on their backs and ears," said a news release from the sheriff's office. "Filthy water, urine and feces were found in and around the cages, many of which were shopping carts with plywood over the top."
The animals rescued included 11 German Shepherd puppies, 13 adult German Shepherds, 1 Pit Bull puppy, 1 adult Pit Bull, 1 adult Rottweiler mix, 2 coyotes and 1 Arctic fox. All the animals were taken to the Animal Welfare League in Chicago Ridge where they will be examined and evaluated. The coyotes and fox, the release stated, will be transferred to a wildlife refuge, while the dogs will be available for adoption.
Vithoukas is scheduled to appear in court July 29th. References
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