Case Snapshot
Case ID: 15579
Classification: Neglect / Abandonment
Animal: dog (non pit-bull)
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Attorneys/Judges
Judge(s): Phillip Infantino


Images for this Case

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Wednesday, Apr 29, 2009

County: Chesapeake City

Charges: Misdemeanor
Disposition: Acquitted
Case Images: 3 files available

Person of Interest: Amber Gooch

On April 5, 2009 at approximately 6:00 p.m., Animal Control Officer (ACO) S. L. Sockman responded to an address in the 1000 block of Hill Street in Chesapeake, Virginia to investigate a complaint of cruelty to a dog. The reporting party stated that a dog was confined to a wire kennel in the back yard without food, water or proper shelter. The reporting party advised he/she had let the dog out of the kennel, and had given it food and water.

ACO Sockman arrived and observed a female white and tan mix dog. She scored the animal at a body score of "1" using the Purina Scale. No one responded to the dog of the residence. ACO Sockman seized the dog and posted an impound notice, as well as a notice of violation on the door of the residence. She transported the dog to the local veterinary emergency clinic for evaluation.

The veterinary evaluation noted a urine stained and soaked "very emaciated" patient. The veterinarian was unable to determine a hydration status due to the dog's lack of body fat. He was not able to obtain a fecal sample for testing. The heartworm test was negative. The weight of the dog was 18 pounds. The staff bathed the dog, and the veterinarian advised frequent small feedings. His prognosis was that with proper care the dog would make a full recovery.

ACO Sockman transported the dog to the shelter. She made contact with the owner, Amber Gooch, by telephone. Ms. Gooch advised that she was out of town and admitted that she had left the dog in the kennel. She declined to tell the officer the name of anyone who was supposed to provide for the dog in her absence.

ACO Sockman charged Amber Gooch with cruelty to animals. She also petitioned for a hearing to seek custody of the dog.

During the time the dog was in the custody of Animal Control, staff named the dog Tinker. She was returned to the veterinarian twice and treated for parasites and diarrhea. Because of her debilitated state, she experienced significant digestive problems, so staff began to cook special dog food for her, such as chicken and rice. By April 20, 2009, Tinker weighed 31 pounds.

The case was heard in Chesapeake General District Court Criminal Division on April 21, 2009, docket number GC09003237-00. Judge Phillip Infantino heard the case. Amber Gooch was found not guilty of cruelty to animals, but was found to be not a fit or proper person to own the animal. She was ordered to pay to Animal Control the sum of $190.00 in impounding fees and $138.50 in reimbursement for medical bills. Animal Control was granted custody of Tinker, and she was subsequently adopted to a new home.

References

  • Chesapeake General District Court Criminal Division - docket number GC09003237-00

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