A special prosecutor will not press criminal charges against former Ingham County Animal Control and Shelter (ICACS) leaders following an investigation into alleged mistreatment of dogs seized in a fighting ring.
Former ICACS Director John Dinon was fired on July 31, and Deputy Director Anne Burns retired that same day.
Shiawassee County Prosecuting Attorney Deana M. Finnegan said she reviewed investigations by the Michigan Humane Society, Ingham County Controller's Office, and the Mason Police Department.
“The dogs at issue were never deprived of food, water or veterinary services.” Finnegan wrote. “Further, it was determined that several of the dogs had developed whipworms which explained their weight loss.”
Finnegan also says a decision to delay the euthanasia of one of the dogs, which the Humane Society said caused 'unnecessary suffering', was not criminal.
“Perhaps a decision to euthanize Dreamville earlier would have eased that dog’s suffering, however, this decision does not rise to criminal abuse or neglect", Finnegan said.
The Ingham County Board of Commissioners approved Jodi LeBombard as the new Animal Control Director last week. She will start on October 15th.
