Dog neglected - Richmond, VA

Thursday, Feb 14, 2002

County: Richmond City

Disposition: Convicted

Defendant/Suspect: Richard L James

A Richmond jury took seven minutes to return a guilty verdict October 22 in a case charging Richard L James with animal cruelty. James was sentenced to one month in jail and fined $2,500 by Judge Richard Taylor.

Assistant Commonwealth's Attorneys Michelle Welch and Rhonda Spady argued that James had denied his female terrier mix of adequate food, water and veterinary care.

City Animal Control Officer Douglas Dawson responded to a complaint February 14, 2002 at James' 3112 Fourth Street residence. Officer Dawson found the dog emaciated and barely able to move.

A veterinarian who treated the dog testified that she was near death, "no muscle mass, and literally skin and bones." The veterinarian testified that the dog weighed only 25 lbs., less than half her normal weight when brought to the Veterinary Emergency Center in February.

The dog was transferred to a foster home and has double her weight. She is reportedly in good health and will remain with her foster caretaker.

References

• SaveOurShelters

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