Highland Humane Society announces recent conviction on animal cruelty charge
The Highland Humane Society this week announced the conviction of a Hillsboro woman last month on an animal cruelty charge.
Highland County's Humane Agent Bryana Williamson reports that on April 8, she received an online animal cruelty complaint form alleging that a Hillsboro woman and a local teen were caught on video punching and kicking a dog. The complainant further states they were filmed holding the dog off the ground by the dog's collar.
On April 9, Williamson met with the witness to go over the videos of the incident and alleged violation. After reviewing the videos, Williamson could clearly see that the suspect punches the dog in the face multiple times. Williamson could also see a juvenile clearly kick the dog in the face.
Williamson proceeded to the suspect’s home and upon arrival informed the suspect of the video evidence and advised she would need to impound the dog for the dog's safety. She notified the suspect that there would be a hearing within 10 days of the impoundment. The suspects would not allow Agent Williamson to impound the dog.
Williamson then proceeded to the Hillsboro Police Department, where they assisted her with impounding the dog. Ciara Lee Howe of Hillsboro was taken into custody and served with animal cruelty charges.
A probable cause hearing was held April 16. It was determined during the hearing that the Humane Society would continue to care for the dog, and Howe was served a bond in the amount of $450 for the 30-day impoundment of the dog.
On May 7, Howe was found guilty of a misdemeanor in the second degree of animal cruelty. The dog (a female German shepherd) was ordered to be forfeited to the Highland Humane Society.
Agent Williamson wishes to thank the Hillsboro Police Department and their officers for their assistance on the case and investigation.
The Highland Humane Society is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. To support their mission of preventing animal cruelty, please send donations to Highland Humane Society, PO Box 471, Hillsboro, Ohio 45133.
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