Fake veterinarian sentenced in Akron

A Tallmadge woman who pretended to be a veterinarian was sentenced today in Akron court. Brandi Tomko, 36, who had been a receptionist and aide at the C&D Animal Hospital on Brittain Rd. stayed on and saw patients in a veterinarian’s capacity after the practice had closed down. Tomko appeared in Akron court today to be sentenced.

Tomko was arrested in April of 2012 when customers called police with their suspicions. She faced a 33-count criminal indictment for pretending to be a veterinarian. The charges included practicing without a license, cruelty to animals, and injuring animals. In February, she faced only 8 of the charges.

RELATED: Summit County woman arrested for pretending to be vet

Tomko pled not guilty when she appeared in court last month, telling a story in stark contrast to the ones of her accusers.

“I never said I was a vet or a vet tech.” she claimed.

But customers who brought their pets to the clinic said they had been duped. Several reported that Tomko examined their pets, diagnosed them, prescribed medication and in some cases performed surgeries. Tomko, who has a drug problem, ran a cash only ‘practice’, using the money she scammed to purchase drugs for her addiction. Judge Paul Gallagher found Tomko guilty of two felonies and six misdemeanors after a three-day trial in the Summit County Court of Common Pleas.

A tearful Tomko told the court she was sorry today.

“I’m not a malicious person who doesn’t have a heart,” she said. “I’ve rescued animals my entire life.”

But her apology didn’t cut any ice with the judge or pet owners.

Kenny Reymann, whose dog, Charlie, died just days after being treated by Tomko read a statement to her in court today.

“You robbed me of the last four days with my best friend.” Raymann said “and just because you wanted to get high.”

Disabled veteran Robert McGee also read a statement today about his service dog, Allie, who died as a result of Tomko’s care. “She was my hands, my legs, my back, my emotional support. I will do my best to forgive you for killing my service dog, Allie.” McGee said.

Judge Gallagher sentenced Tomko to 18 months in the Ohio Reformatory for Women in Marysville.

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