A Pennsylvania man, Stephen Stoltzfus, is facing serious animal abuse charges following a shocking incident involving a dog at his residence in Kirkwood. Authorities allege that Stoltzfus used scissors to amputate the severely injured hind leg of a Labradoodle-type dog named Kimber. This disturbing case has garnered attention due to the gruesome details surrounding the alleged abuse.
Officials from the Pennsylvania SPCA, who initiated the investigation, reportedly received a complaint indicating that the dog had sustained injuries from farm equipment. It was alleged that while Stoltzfus sought pain medication for the injured animal, he refused to provide any essential veterinary care. Instead, in an act described as brutal, he supposedly performed the amputation himself with scissors.
On May 9, 2025, responding officers discovered Kimber in a distressing state. According to reports, the dog had blood-stained fur and was missing a significant portion of her left hind leg, exposing bone. The condition was apparently severe enough to require immediate medical intervention, leading to Kimber being transported to the Pennsylvania SPCA’s Main Line Animal Rescue Site for emergency treatment.
Initial examinations revealed that Kimber was suffering from severe anemia and mild thrombocytopenia, which are conditions indicative of acute blood loss. Additionally, she was apparently found to have flea and tick infestations, and her overall hygienic condition raised alarms among officials. The investigators described her as being in a malodorous state with extensive blood matting covering her fur.
Stoltzfus now faces multiple charges, including felony counts for intentionally and knowingly inflicting torture upon Kimber, as well as failing to provide the necessary veterinary care that resulted in serious bodily injury. He also faces a misdemeanor charge for allegedly ill-treating the animal, thereby creating a risk of serious bodily injury or death.
Julie Klim, CEO of the Pennsylvania SPCA, expressed profound concern for Kimber, stating, “She endured unimaginable suffering that no animal should ever experience.” Klim emphasized the gravity of denying a critically injured animal medical care and further inflicting harm. Nicole Wilson, the Director of Animal Law Enforcement and Shelter Services at the organization, echoed these sentiments, condemning the actions that led to Kimber’s condition and noting the prolonged pain the animal suffered.
In light of the situation, a judge has ordered that all remaining dogs at Stoltzfus’ property be placed into protective custody under the Pennsylvania SPCA. This decision comes amidst “serious concerns” for their welfare while legal proceedings unfold.
The Pennsylvania SPCA is calling on the public to come forward with information regarding this case or any other suspected instances of animal cruelty. They encourage people to reach out to their Cruelty Hotline, with options for anonymous tips.