Author: PawsNews

Toledo, OH – A Toledo woman has been arrested on charges of animal cruelty following a disturbing discovery that reportedly revealed the dire condition of three dogs left in her care. According to the Toledo Police Department (TPD), the incident occurred on April 11 at a residence in east Toledo, where a reported eviction led to the shocking circumstances.

Officers who arrived at the scene allegedly found two adult pit bulls confined in cages that were piled with garbage, effectively hiding the animals from view. The living conditions in the home were described as unsanitary, with an overwhelming presence of feces and urine throughout the property. Authorities noted that the dogs appeared to have been deprived of both food and water, with visible signs of suffering, including emaciation that exposed their rib bones.

In a tragically shocking discovery, police stated that a pit bull puppy was found dead in an upstairs bedroom. Initial observations suggested that the puppy might have starved, as its skeletal frame was visible, raising concerns about the treatment of animals at the residence. Witnesses informed authorities that the dogs belonged to the arrested woman, identified as Roberts, adding to the allegations regarding her responsibility for their welfare.

Roberts faces serious charges under animal cruelty laws that encompass acts such as torture, deprivation of basic needs, and confinement without food or water. TPD has characterized the conditions under which the dogs were found as horrifying, drawing attention to the ongoing issue of animal welfare in the community.

Roberts has been released on a $1,500 bond. The case has ignited conversations about the responsibilities of pet ownership and the potential for legal action against individuals who fail to care for their animals.

Advocates for animal rights have expressed outrage over the incident, calling for stricter enforcement of animal welfare laws. Community members are reportedly rallying for increased awareness and education about the importance of humane treatment for pets, urging authorities to take a stand against neglect.

In a harrowing case that has shocked the Gila Bend community, a 38-year-old man named John Jackson has been arrested following allegations of severe animal neglect. According to the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), Jackson reportedly abandoned 18 dogs at his residence, leaving them without food, clean water, or proper shelter for at least two weeks.

Deputies launched an investigation after receiving reports concerning the animals’ welfare and reportedly found them in various stages of abuse, neglect, and death upon entering the property. Disturbingly, seven adult dogs were allegedly discovered in horrific conditions, with evidence suggesting that some had resorted to cannibalism in a desperate bid for survival. Reportedly, two dogs were found dead in the backyard, while the living dogs were reported to have consumed their deceased companions.

Inside the home, the situation was equally dire. MCSO officials reportedly found a female adult Cane Corso, who was believed to be the mother of several Cane Corso puppies, deceased on the premises. A total of 11 adult dogs and seven puppies were subsequently removed from the home, with immediate veterinary care provided through MCSO’s Animal Safe Haven Unit.

Jeff Gentry, chief deputy of the MCSO, described the conditions as “disgusting and deplorable,” indicating that deputies must wear protective gear due to the presence of serious diseases among the surviving dogs, including worms, eye conditions, and the highly contagious PARVO virus. Gentry emphasized the emotional toll this case has taken on officials attempting to rescue the surviving animals.

As investigations continue, veterinary reports are pending and may lead to additional charges against Jackson, who already faces felony animal cruelty charges. Authorities are also considering the possibility of other individuals being involved, as Jackson allegedly used social media to sell the dogs. “There are possibly additional suspects,” stated MCSO spokesperson Sgt. Joaquin Enriquez, raising concerns that this situation may be part of a larger issue of animal neglect in the community.

This incident underscores a troubling trend in animal cruelty cases in Arizona, prompting advocates like the Arizona Humane Society to lobby for stricter legislation. Senate Bill 1437 aims to clarify and expand the state’s definition of animal abuse, reflecting the growing urgency to address this issue.

The MCSO has reportedly allocated more resources toward investigating animal crimes, despite staffing shortages. This commitment demonstrates a proactive approach towards alleviating the rising instances of animal cruelty in the Valley, with Gentry assuring that these cases will remain a priority.

Jackson’s arrest has sparked conversations about ethical animal breeding practices and the responsibilities of pet owners. Community members have expressed outrage and sadness as they await further developments in this disturbing case, which serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and compassion towards animals in our communities.

ELK GROVE — A heartwarming ceremony took place at the Elk Grove City Council meeting this past Wednesday, as Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen presented a special proclamation to Ethan, a 4-year-old Presa Canario, in recognition of his heroic contributions to raising awareness about animal abuse. Ethan’s extraordinary journey, which began in dire circumstances, has captivated hearts and inspired action against animal cruelty.

In 2019, Ethan was reportedly found abandoned outside a Kentucky animal shelter, weighing 50 pounds less than a healthy dog of his breed should. He was described as severely dehydrated and in critical condition. Jeff Callaway, Ethan’s adoptive owner, recounted the moment they thought the dog was lifeless upon arrival at the veterinary clinic. “When the person found him and brought him into the vet area, they thought he was dead. And then he took a breath,” Jeff shared, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.

After receiving the necessary medical attention, veterinarians revived Ethan, setting him on a path of recovery that would eventually lead to his adoption by Jeff and his wife, Dana. The couple has embraced Ethan’s mission, which includes meeting with lawmakers to advocate for stronger protections against animal cruelty. Recent legislative efforts in Kentucky resulted in the passage of “Ethan’s Law,” which reportedly increases the penalties for animal abuse to felony charges.

As Jeff Callaway explained, the passage of this law represents a significant step forward, but there remains much to be done. “Now that that law has passed, our job now becomes to give a name to all those other cats and dogs that have been abused or tortured or killed,” he stated, reflecting the continuing struggle against cruelty in the community.

Ethan’s tale resonates not only with lawmakers but also with animal advocates and pet lovers alike. “When you see him in person and you see the love he radiates, it’s really been amazing,” said Penny Forseth-Andrews, an animal advocate who highlighted the inspiration Ethan brings to potential pet adopters. His journey has captured the attention of a growing following on social media, where he boasts 44,000 followers on Facebook, many of whom feel a personal connection to his plight and recovery.

Recognized for his impact, the American Humane Society honored Ethan as an “American Hero Dog” in 2022, further solidifying his status as a symbol of hope in the ongoing fight against animal cruelty. “When we come around, people are always happy to see him and they want to talk to him,” Jeff said, elaborating on the joy Ethan brings to those who encounter him.

Ethan’s continued advocacy will see him participating in a walking tour of Elk Grove’s historic main street on Friday afternoon, followed by appearances as the guest of honor at upcoming fundraisers in nearby Folsom and Sheldon. The Callaway family hopes that by sharing Ethan’s inspiring story, they can motivate others to consider adopting shelter pets and standing against animal abuse.

As Ethan continues to tour the nation in his mission, his presence embraces the heartbreaking, yet uplifting narrative of resilience, community support, and the power of advocacy for the voiceless.

Authorities in Hibbing, Minnesota have arrested a local man, Trevor Michael Ross, on serious charges of animal cruelty following disturbing reports of alleged abuse to his young dog. The arrest, which took place on April 4, 2025, comes after multiple witnesses reportedly stepped forward to share harrowing accounts of the dog’s mistreatment.

Ross, 35, faces one felony count of animal torture and a misdemeanor count for deprivation of food or shelter. Allegations against him include throwing his recently acquired Great Dane/Mastiff puppy off his back porch and taking extreme measures to silence the dog’s cries of distress, including reportedly wrapping it in a cushion.

The ordeal began on April 1, when a concerned citizen notified the Hibbing Police about witnessing Ross allegedly abusing the puppy. The witness claimed to have seen Ross throw the dog, prompting the animal to yelp in pain. Disturbingly, the reporting party expressed fear that the puppy would succumb to its injuries from the alleged incident.

Responses from the police indicated a swift investigation after initial reports. Officers arrived at Ross’s residence late that evening, finding no one home, but they spoke with two women who said they had come to rescue the dog, believing it had suffered a broken leg at Ross’s hands. The women alleged that a young boy, a friend of the family, had witnessed Ross’s abusive behavior.

On April 2, police took the boy’s statement, in which he described witnessing Ross holding the puppy down by its throat in an alleged act of strangulation, leaving the dog gasping for breath. The boy further noted that, on a visit to the home a week prior, he apparently observed the puppy struggling to walk and trembling.

When authorities revisited Ross’s home the following day, they confronted him about the dog’s well-being. Witnesses reportedly described the puppy as emaciated, with visible ribs and a spine that stood out against its thin skin. When officers called the dog, it was said to have been too weak to respond, raising further alarms about its condition.

Responding to the officers’ inquiries, Ross allegedly claimed the dog had been injured from a fall caused by a friend. However, he reportedly did not address the allegations of abuse directly. Following the home’s inspection, the dog was taken by police to the Mesaba Animal Hospital, where a veterinarian reportedly expressed shock at its state.

The veterinarian’s examination revealed severe malnourishment, a fracture in the dog’s hind leg, bruising on its head, and even a potential case of intervertebral disc disease. X-rays later discovered additional, unhealed fractures that would necessitate surgical intervention.

As of now, Trevor Michael Ross remains in custody without bail. The case has drawn considerable attention from animal protection advocates and law enforcement alike, who express a commitment to pursuing justice for the powerless puppy at the center of this troubling incident. Investigations are ongoing as authorities gather more information from witnesses and medical personnel involved in the case.

Three males from Somerset County have been sentenced for their roles in the illegal hunting of white-tailed deer, a shocking incident that has raised concerns about wildlife poaching in the area. The Pennsylvania Game Commission reported that the trio allegedly killed 19 deer over a two-month period in 2020 under dubious circumstances, using spotlights to target the animals at night from the safety of a vehicle.

According to officials, the violations do not end with the confirmed 19 deer; there are claims that as many as 31 deer could have been unlawfully hunted during this timeframe. Disturbingly, while some of the deer were reportedly taken for consumption, the majority of the carcasses were reportedly left to decay in the open, a practice that has sparked outrage among conservationists and wildlife advocates.

Caleb Roland, 26, of Somerset, was found guilty of three summary counts of unlawful killing or taking of big game. He is now subject to fines totaling $3,000 and has been ordered to pay an additional $5,000 as replacement costs for the wildlife slain. Roland’s hunting and trapping privileges have been revoked for a period of 30 years, highlighting the serious consequences of his actions.

Two juvenile co-defendants faced even harsher penalties. One juvenile was found guilty of a staggering 23 felony and two summary counts, including serious offenses related to unlawful hunting practices. This individual must pay $25,000 in fines and $5,000 in replacement costs, with hunting privileges suspended for an extraordinary 50 years. In a separate case, another juvenile received a sentence for 14 felony and six summary counts, incurring a fine of $15,000 in addition to the $5,000 in replacement costs. Their hunting rights have been revoked for 28 years.

The sentences imposed on these individuals serve as a stern reminder of the law’s stance on wildlife preservation and the severe implications of engaging in poaching activities. Both juveniles will be required to surrender any firearms utilized during these unethical hunts, stepping up the enforcement against illegal hunting practices.

This incident has not only shocked local residents but has also spurred calls for greater awareness and enforcement regarding wildlife protection. The Pennsylvania Game Commission has emphasized the importance of public vigilance, urging citizens to report any suspected illegal hunting activities. They encourage individuals to call designated hotlines to assist in combating wildlife crimes.

As the fallout from this case continues, it stands as a cautionary tale about the devastating consequences of disregarding conservation laws and the respect owed to wildlife populations. The Somerset County community is left reeling, grappling with the implications of these alleged acts that dismantle wildlife and undermine the ethical standards of hunting.

Green, OH – A 57-year-old man faces serious allegations of animal cruelty following a troubling incident reported Friday, April 11. Authorities say Bret Stalnaker was taken into custody after an alleged altercation with a female resident on East Turkeyfoot Lake Road, leading to shocking claims of cruelty towards newborn kittens.

The Summit County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the scene after receiving reports of a verbal dispute between Stalnaker and the female resident. Upon investigation, deputies discovered that Stalnaker had been living in a van on the property. The situation apparently escalated after a conflict arose earlier in the day, during which Stalnaker allegedly threatened the woman via text messages.

According to the sheriff’s office, Stalnaker reportedly threatened to cut off the tails of the kittens, born just over a week prior. The threats reportedly included intentions to harm not only the newborn kittens but also their mother, sending a chilling message to the woman who had sought refuge in a detached garage.

In a shocking turn of events, Stalnaker allegedly threw a container at the woman, which contained the severed tails of three kittens. This act reportedly occurred shortly after the threatening messages were sent, painting a distressing picture of cruelty and violence towards vulnerable animals.

Upon the deputies’ arrival, Stalnaker was ordered to exit his vehicle. In a concerning development, he allegedly threw an object as he exited, which was later found to be a loaded .45-caliber pistol. The weapon raised further alarms for the law enforcement officers on scene.

As a result of these allegations, Stalnaker has been charged with animal cruelty, classified as a fourth-degree felony. He has since been transported to Summit County Jail, where he awaits further proceedings that may include additional charges, depending on the outcome of the investigation.

The injured kittens were rushed to a local veterinarian, where they are reportedly receiving treatment for their injuries. The swift response demonstrates concerns not only for the wellbeing of the animals but also for the potential dangers posed by Stalnaker’s actions.

Animal cruelty cases evoke strong community responses, and this incident has already drawn attention from local animal advocates and organizations, illustrating the deep emotional impact such events have on residents. The investigation continues as authorities delve into the allegations surrounding Stalnaker’s conduct and its ramifications for both the kittens and the community.

Residents in Green now face the unsettling reality of such actions occurring within their neighborhood, prompting discussions about animal safety and vigilance within the community. As this story develops, more details are anticipated to surface, shedding light on the ongoing investigation and its implications for Stalnaker’s future.

An online petition calling for an investigation into alleged animal cruelty involving Tim Lambesis, the frontman of the metal band As I Lay Dying, is rapidly gaining traction, nearing its goal of 70,000 signatures. Organized by Care2 on The Petition Site, the petition reportedly references a leaked 30-second video that emerged in January, which appears to show Lambesis in distressing altercations with his dog while attempting to get it outside.

The footage allegedly depicts Lambesis exhibiting physical frustration towards the canine, intensifying concerns about his behavior. The petition’s authors are urging California authorities to scrutinize Lambesis’s actions and to mandate mental health counseling for the singer.

Lambesis’s history is marred with controversy, having served a prison sentence for a separate incident allegedly involving solicitation of murder against his estranged wife. His tumultuous past and subsequent effort at rehabilitation have drawn widespread attention, as he sought a degree in social work and became certified as an addiction treatment counselor following his early release from prison.

The current clamor for intervention is compounded by a string of troubling events surrounding Lambesis. Reports indicated that in 2024, multiple members of As I Lay Dying began departing from the band, citing “concerning patterns of behavior” without specifying details. Over the Thanksgiving holiday, purportedly leaked footage surfaced that spotlighted intense verbal confrontations between Lambesis and his wife, Dany. While Lambesis alleged that he was victimized by emotional abuse, Dany has denied involvement with the leaked videos, countering with accusations that include claims of her own abuse and Lambesis’s infidelity.

These controversies have led to As I Lay Dying dropping out of planned performances at two major music festivals in 2025, raising eyebrows about the future of the band. Lambesis has expressed a desire to continue with a restructured lineup but has not provided details regarding new members.

As of the latest updates, the petition has gained 68,866 signatures and aims to reach the 70,000 mark, highlighting significant public concern regarding Lambesis’s conduct and ongoing mental health challenges. The case remains dynamic, drawing both scrutiny and support from fans and advocates alike.

The distressing nature of the leaked video and the serious allegations surrounding Lambesis’s personal life have compelled many to question the implications of his past and present actions. Whether or not Lambesis will face formal investigation remains to be seen, but the growing petition indicates that many individuals are calling for accountability in light of the troubling circumstances that continue to unfold.

The unfolding saga of Tim Lambesis proposes a complex examination of celebrity behavior, personal redemption, and the impact of mental health—issues that resonate widely in today’s society. As developments continue, a keen eye will be on both Lambesis and the petition’s growth, reflecting the public’s evolving sentiment towards him.

Photo credit: S. Bollmann