Puppy mills are a disgrace to our society and torture to so many animals. It's even worse when those who are charged with cruelty are given a slap on the wrist instead of meaningful punishment.
Dave and Rhonda Auton and their son, Adam, each faced 241 counts of animal cruelty - one for each dog rescued - after a raid on Pedigree Pets in Maplewood, OH last November.
The raid was a result of a complaint to Deputy Cami Frey from someone who'd purchased a dog from the Autons.
Veterinarian Dr. Lisa Nadasi was shocked at the poor conditions of the animals there, reportedly in very poor health and in kennels unfit for housing animals. One dog was found dead.
“All the animals outside, all their water was frozen. I didn’t see any food anywhere. Every dog we brought in here to feed is starving.” - Lisa Nadasi
The Autons appeared in Sidney Municipal Court today, March 6, before Judge Donald Luce. Adam was sentenced for disorderly conduct, fined $250, and given a 30-day jail sentence that will be suspended if court costs and fines are paid.
Rhonda and Dave were sentenced on one charge of animal cruelty and given 90 days in jail along with a $250 fine. Their sentences will be suspended upon Rhonda's mental health evaluation and both paying fines and court costs.
None of the Autons are permitted to own a dog for at least two years, and Rhonda and Dave's kennel license will be suspended for just two years.
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