Search warrants executed for Toronto Humane Society in animal cruelty investigation
For imnmediate release(November 26, 2009) - Search warrants executed for Toronto Humane Society in animal cruelty investigation
The Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) executed search warrants for the headquarters of the Toronto Humane Society (THS) at 11 River Street, Toronto, Ontario, and one private residence. The warrants were issued in an ongoing investigation into animal cruelty at the THS. Members of the Toronto Police Service provided assistance.
Five people named in the search warrants are being arrested and charged with criminal offences based on the contents in the search warrants, which were executed after 3 p.m.
- Tim Trow, THS President, will be charged with Conspiracy to Commit an Indictable Offence (2 counts), Cruelty to Animals (2 counts), and Obstruction of a Peace Officer (3 counts).
- Gary McCracken, THS General Manager, will be charged with Conspiracy to Commit an Indictable Offence (2 counts), Cruelty to Animals, and Obstruction of a Peace Officer (3 counts).
- Dr. Steve Sheridan, THS Head Veterinarian, will be charged with Conspiracy to Commit an Indictable Offence and Cruelty to Animals.
- Romeo Bernadino will be charged with Conspiracy to Commit an Indictable Offence (2 counts), Cruelty to Animals, and Obstruction of a Peace Officer (3 counts).
- All of the above, as well as the THS Board of Directors, are also being charged with five counts of animal cruelty, a provincial offence under the Ontario SPCA Act
The charges stem from an investigation that was launched in early 2009 in response to allegations of animal cruelty. The OSPCA conducted the investigation with the help of private investigators from The Investigators Group under the authority of the Ontario SPCA Act, 2009. Under the Act, the OSPCA is responsible for enforcing animal cruelty statutes in Ontario. It is also responsible for overseeing animal welfare shelters such as local humane societies.
“This is a difficult day for the Ontario SPCA and the Toronto Humane Society, but it is necessary to protect the lives of animals,” said OSPCA Chief Executive Officer Kate MacDonald. “We realize that the THS is capable of providing an important public service, but it could not fulfill its responsibilities until this action was taken.“Our first priority is the safety of the animals currently in the THS facility. Our team of veterinarians will assess their health and take appropriate actions. We believe the THS can become an important animal welfare facility again in the near future with effective and responsible management,” Ms. MacDonald added. A media availability will be held in front of the Toronto Humane Society after the search warrants have been executed.
For more information contact:
Rosaline Ryan Director of Marketing and Communications
Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
(905) 898-7122 Ext. 308
(416) 428-9886 mobile
Kevin Strooband OSPCA investigator
(905) 932-5384mobile
Christopher Avery Barrister and Solicitor
(416) 895-4964 mobile
Barrie Couple Charged with Animal Cruelty
Toeonto, ON (November 26, 2009) - A Barrie couple have been charged with three counts under the newly amended Ontario SPCA Act.
In The Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) executed search warrants for the headquarters of the Toronto Humane Society (THS) at 11 River Street, Toronto, Ontario, and one private residence. The warrants were issued in an ongoing investigation into animal cruelty at the THS. Members of the Toronto Police Service provided assistance.
The cat was found to suffer from numerous severe traumatic injuries including, 19 broken ribs, a broken jaw, broken vertebrae, cuts, bruises and head trauma. During the course of the investigation, officers discovered that some of the cat’s injuries were over 2 weeks old and that no treatment for the cat’s suffering had been sought by its owners. Preditor was eventually surrendered to the Barrie Branch by her owners. Due to the severity of the injuries, Preditor was humanely euthanized.
Kevin Jagt and Cara Webb, face a number animal cruelty charges including Cause distress to an animal, fail to provide adequate and appropriate medical attention and permitting an animal to remain in distress.
If convicted the pair could face fines of up to $60,000, two years imprisonment and or a lifetime ban on animal ownership.
Both will appear in court on December 1, 2009.
Media Contact:
Melissa Bainbridge
Branch Manager
Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch
Ph: 705-728-7311
Fx: 705-728-7243
Abandoned Bullmastiff mix required amputation
Barrie, ON. (August 27, 2009) A Good Samaritan brought a Bullmastiff mix to the Ontario SPCA – Barrie Branch. Left behind to fend for himself by a resident on Donald Street, the dog was dragging his front leg and had no feeling in the limb.
Perhaps suffering from the after affects of being hit by a car and not being treated, the male Bullmastiff mix, now known as “Moose” had chewed his leg which resulted in an infection. Moose is currently recovering from a complete leg amputation and is in foster care.
The Ontario SPCA – Barrie Branch is asking for donations to help pay for the surgery that saved this lovely dog.
They are seeking the public’s assistance for any information with regards to his owners whereabouts. Informants can call the Shelter at 728-7311 and ask to speak to Investigations.
Donations for Moose’s care can be made at the Ontario SPCA – Barrie Branch, 91 Patterson Rd or at Allandale Veterinary Hospital Professional Corporation at 484 Essa Rd in Barrie.
Media Contact:
Melissa Bainbridge
Branch Manager
91 Patterson Rd., Barrie, ON
705-728-7311
First large canine removal of the season for Barrie Ontario SPCA Investigations Department
Barrie, ON, (July 16, 2009) - On Wednesday July 16, 2009 Barrie Ontario SPCA Investigations department performed their first large canine removal of the season.
Just when its raining kittens and the outreach to Barrie residents for wet cat and kitten food as the shelter was becoming desperate, a Clearview Township resident was Investigated and he surrendered 13 Chow Chows suffering in deplorable conditions to the Barrie Ontario SPCA Investigations.
The Chow Chows are all adults, both rough and smooth coats ranging in colours of black, blue, red and fawn. Many required immediate Veterinarian care and others are so severely matted they have restricted movement. None of the dogs are housebroken nor leash trained.
The Barrie Ontario SPCA staff and volunteers will have their hands full for the next couple of weeks cleaning up and assessing the dogs. Any donations would be greatly appreciated to help cover the significant costs. The Shelter requires money, towels, sheets, blankets, facecloths and are especially desperate for high quality grooming equipment.
The dogs will be available for adoption for $325, which will include their immediate medical care, spays and neuters, micro chipping, and 6 weeks of insurance. If you are interested in welcoming one of these dogs into your home, please check our website for updates at www.barrie.ontariospca.on
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES FOR MEDIA AVAILABLE BETWEEN 4-7 today.
Media Contact:
Melissa Bainbridge
Branch Manager
91 Patterson Rd., Barrie, ON
705-728-7311
Puppy and kitten mill investigation results in large surrender to Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch
Barrie, ON, (May 5, 2008) - Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch investigators attended a property in Clearview Township this morning. They were responding to a complaint received on the weekend regarding an alleged puppy and kitten mill. The investigation is ongoing and possible charges are pending.
Upon initial inspection of the property, investigators were set to issue Orders under the Ontario SPCA with respect to the provision of appropriate standards of care. Additionally, it was determined that several of the animals required immediate medical attention. As a result, the owner voluntarily surrendered fifteen dogs and puppies and twelve cats and kittens.
Pending necessary medical attention, the animals will be made available for adoption through the Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch. For more information, please call 705-728-7311.
To report animal cruelty, please contact the Ontario SPCA at 1-888-668-7722 or visit www.ontariospca.ca to learn more about critical animal welfare issues.
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Media Contact:
Kristin Williams
Public Relations Manager
1-888-668-7722 extension 305
kwilliams@ospca.on.ca
Barrie woman pleads guilty to animal cruelty charges under the Criminal Code
BARRIE, ON, (August 1, 2007) – A Barrie woman has received two years probation after pleading guilty under the Cruelty to Animals section of the Criminal Code of Canada a year after her dog suffered a painful death where no medical attention was sought. In a Barrie court on July 30, 2007, 42-year-old Claudia Duri-Partridge received probation that will prohibit her from having custody or control of any animal for two years.
On January 3, 2006 at approximately 11:30 a.m., the Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch received a complaint regarding a large dog, possibly injured, laying in the driveway of a Peel Street address in Barrie. Two officers responded to the call and upon arrival at the property discovered a large grey mastiff-type dog laying on its side partially covered with a blanket. Upon closer examination, the investigators confirmed that the dog was deceased. No obvious signs of injury or trauma were noted, however the abdomen appeared extremely distended.
Ownership of the dog was claimed by Claudia Duri-Partridge of Peel Street in Barrie. She indicated that her fiancé co-owned the dog. The fiancé has also been charged with the neglect of the dog. The dog, named Karma, was a spayed female, approximately three years of age, and was acquired in October 2005 from a "Free to Good Home" ad. Duri-Partridge indicated that the dog had not been acting "normal" during the evening of December 31, 2005 and that the dog's stomach had begun to enlarge. No medical treatment was sought during this time.
Karma, who had been laying outside by the barbeque since January 1, was removed by Ontario SPCA investigators, and with the owner's permission, delivered to the pathology laboratory in Guelph for post mortem testing. Results from the necropsy confirmed that the dog died of a 180-degree counter- clockwise gastric torsion, an excruciatingly painful condition where the animal's stomach becomes twisted. If not treated immediately, the condition can be fatal.
The guilty plea has brought mixed emotions to Ontario SPCA Inspector Banks who has worked on the case since the initial call. "It's frustrating that things like this have to happen at all," says Inspector Banks. "This dog endured a lengthy and very painful death and no one cared enough to seek help. Yes, this woman has received probation, however for every one animal cruelty conviction that we get, there will be 50 where we don't receive a conviction and that is due to a lack of strong animal cruelty laws."
The trial for the co-accused is scheduled for October 29, 2007 at the Ontario Court of Justice, Barrie.
Community/Media Relations Coordinator
Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch
Phone: 705-728-7311
Fax: 705-728-7243
Suspect sought in alleged dog dragging
BARRIE, ON, (June 29, 2007) - The Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch is asking for the public's help in locating a man involved with an alleged dog dragging. On June 28 the Barrie Branch received an anonymous call reporting a dog being dragged on Penvill Trail in Barrie, a residential area right beside hiking trails popular with walkers and their dogs.
According to the caller, a man was seen beating his shepherd-type dog when the dog was not obeying commands following their walk in this area. The man then got into his car and proceeded to drag the dog by holding the leash out of the driver's side window. After the dog had been dragged a short distance and was bleeding, the driver stopped the vehicle and put the dog into the car and drove off.
The suspect is described as a male caucasian between 25-30 years old, medium build, and approximately six feet tall. He has a shaved head with a black tribal type tattoo on his neck. He was using yellow nylon type rope to leash his dog that was wearing a black collar. The dog is described as a mid-size shepherd-type dog approximately 60 pounds and black and tan in colour. The dog may now have large open wounds and be missing fur.
The vehicle is described as a red older model sedan.
If you have any information on this incident you are asked to contact the investigations department at the Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch.
Community/Media Relations Coordinator
Barrie SPCA
Phone: 705-728-7311
Fax: 705-728-7243
Record total raised in Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch Walk-a-Thon
BARRIE, ON, (May 31, 2007) - Grey skies failed to put a damper on the second annual Friends For Life! Walk-a-thon held Sunday, May 27, 2007. Days after the walk, pledges continued coming through the door of the Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch boosting the final total to just over $18,000.
Large and small, long-haired and short-haired, two-legged and four-legged participants walked Barrie's waterfront, raising money for the Barrie Branch. Upon their return to Heritage Park, all were entertained by the skills of the Barrie Police K9 Unit as well as an agility demonstration by Canine Connection. The Mutt Show was a crowd pleaser that allowed local canines to show off some hidden talents to the puppies that sat in the wings. From catching flying hotdogs from their owner's mouths, to placing in the top three for resembling Keith Richards, the hardware was handed out to many deserving recipients.
The Ontario SPCA Friends for Life! Walk-Thon is a provincial program of the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Ontario SPCA), designed to raise support and awareness for the protection and care of all animals in Ontario.
2007 marks the second year of the province wide walk. Previously, individual walks, commonly known as the 'Mutt Strut,' were held by Ontario SPCA branches at various times of the year. The Ontario SPCA moved to a province-wide walk event to enhance the awareness and support raised through the individual walks by having them held on the same day where possible.
The Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch wishes to thank all the participants, volunteers and sponsors that made this year's event a great success.
For further inquiries please contact:
Community/Media Relations Coordinator
Barrie SPCA
Phone: 705-728-7311
Fax: 705-728-7243
Ontario SPCA Walk-a-thon pledge forms ready for pick up!
BARRIE, ON, (April 16, 2007) - Have the leashes on standby, the Ontario SPCA's walk-a-thon is quickly approaching. On Sunday, May 27, 2007, starting at Heritage Park, hundreds of pet owners will walk their furry friends along Barrie's waterfront in support of the Ontario SPCA. The Ontario SPCA Friends for Life! Walk-a-thon is a provincial program of the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Ontario SPCA), designed to raise support and awareness for the protection and care of all animals in Ontario. Though a provincial initiative, all money raised in Barrie stays with the local SPCA Branch.
This year's event promises to be one of the best walks yet with more prizes available to both those with the highest amount in pledges as well as raffle prizes. Some of the prizes include a years worth of pet food donated by Nutram, a dual screen portable DVD player, digital camera, a personal pet portrait and game tickets to both the Baycats and the Barrie Colts. Following the walk, be entertained by demonstrations by the Barrie Police K9 Unit and the agility dogs from Canine Connection. Walk participants will also enjoy a free lunch provided by Maple Lodge Farms. Does your dog have a great trick, a fashionable outfit, or resemble a celebrity? Then strut your stuff at the Mutt Show following the walk for a chance at some great prizes.
2007 marks the second year of the province-wide walk. Previously, individual walks were held by Ontario SPCA branches at various times of the year. The Ontario SPCA moved to a province-wide walk event to enhance the awareness and support raised through the individual walks by having them held on the same day where possible.
Each year the Ontario SPCA provides protection, care, sheltering and re-homing to thousands of animals. Last year alone the Barrie SPCA received over 1,500 cats and 750 dogs. These numbers steadily increase every year causing immense pressure on the shelter's limited resources. And with the area's continuing booming population, the need for successful fundraising initiatives is imperative.
Please help us by spreading the word about our upcoming walk - helping us help the animals.
Pledge forms are available at the Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch at 91 Patterson Rd.
Community/Media Relations Coordinator
Barrie SPCA
Phone: 705-728-7311
Fax: 705-728-7243
Puppy stolen from Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch
BARRIE, ON, (April 16, 2007) - The Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch is searching for one of its own after a puppy was taken from the shelter on Saturday, April 14. A couple, which was believed to be mother and son, entered the shelter around 4 p.m. They said they were interested in possibly adopting "Bobby" and requested to take him for a brief walk around the parking lot. The animal care staff leashed up the dog, and the couple left the building, never coming back.
Bobby is a six-month-old male Rottweiler-cross who came to the shelter on April 1, 2007 after being abandoned by his owners. He is a highly energetic pup that likes to play and is quite jumpy. He's a solidly built dog with a shoulder height of just under two feet, and weighs about 40 pounds. He has short black hair with tan and white markings on his face, chest and feet. What makes this search even more critical is that Bobby recently underwent surgery and requires post-operative care. He also needs his rabies shot.
It's an incident that has not only angered shelter staff, but also several families who had submitted adoption applications in hopes of adopting Bobby. "What's really unfortunate here is that Bobby actually had a great chance at finding a forever home with all the other applications we have on him," says Branch Manager Sandra Kiyonaga. "We trust people with our animals, hoping they have the same compassion for them that we do. Obviously, now we need to do that more guardedly."
This latest incident has prompted the shelter to impose new policies when it comes to people wanting to take animals for a walk. Anyone leaving the building with an animal is required to leave personal identification with shelter staff until the animal has been returned.
Anyone with information regarding Bobby's location is asked to call the Ontario SPCA.
Community/Media Relations Coordinator
Barrie SPCA
Phone: 705-728-7311
Fax: 705-728-7243
Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch over-run with dogs
BARRIE, ON, (April 4, 2007) - During a season that normally sees a large increase in the cats and kittens that are dropped off at the shelter, the facility is currently over-run with dogs. Each spring the Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch braces itself for the influx of kittens, however it's been the dogs that have pushed the facility to over-capacity.
"I can't remember a time when there's been so many unclaimed strays," says Animal Care Coordinator Amanda Smith. "These are people's pets, and they're just not calling about them." The Barrie Branch currently has a dozen dogs up for adoption, with another dozen waiting to be claimed in the stray area. The shelter even has its over-run area full as well.
Many of the strays are also coming in from areas outside of Barrie. Dogs running at large don't recognize town lines and will stray far from home, sometimes ending up at a shelter in a different jurisdiction. Occasionally motorists will see a dog running in traffic and will pick it up and drop it off at a shelter near their destination - not necessarily close to where the dog is from. "People need to be reminded that if you have lost a dog, you need to check all the possible facilities where the animal may have been taken to," says Smith.
Another issue that arises is that pet owners visiting the area on a weekend getaway will bring their dog, and the dog will get away from them. The family returns home without their dog and the animal is left running in unfamiliar territory. This recent influx of dogs also serves as a reminder to animal owners to make sure that their pet(s) wear their tags at all times. Accidents do happen, and dogs will stray. All attempts will be made by the Barrie Branch to follow the contact information provided on the tags.
Last month the Barrie Branch issued a plea for canned donations to help replenish all the food that was thrown out due to the massive recall. The response was overwhelming and the shelter is particularly thankful to have the extra food during this high occupancy time.
Community/Media Relations Coordinator
Barrie SPCA
Phone: 705-728-7311
Fax: 705-728-7243
Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch canned food supply down 85 percent due to pet food recall
BARRIE, ON, (April 3, 2007) - Following a second round of recalled canned pet food the Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch has reached a critical low. Last week when Menu Foods recalled the first batch of food, the shelter was forced to throw out about 30 percent of its dog and cat canned food in the building. With this second round, now cutting even deeper, the shelter is appealing to the public for canned food not on the recalled list.
"This hurts us a lot, particularly when we rely on the public for 100 percent of our canned donations," says Branch Manager Sandra Kiyonga. "With spring now here, our busy season is upon us where the shelter sees a huge increase in animals coming in. That's more mouths to feed with less food to do it with."
Every spring the shelter is inundated with kittens that get dropped off by people that don't want to care for them or take the time to find them homes. And the season has started already.
The Ontario SPCA is also reminding pet owners to check their labels carefully and not to take any risks where their pet food is concerned.
"We're hoping that those wishing to help us out will go to our website to see the food that we are accepting as well as to double check the food that you are feeding your pet," says Kiyonaga.
Community/Media Relations Coordinator
Barrie SPCA
Phone: 705-728-7311
Fax: 705-728-7243
It's a Purrfect weekend to add to the family
BARRIE, ON, (March 15, 2007) - Stop by the Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch for our Cat Adopt-a-thon Weekend.
Event kick-off is March 16, with our Open House offering extended hours of 11 - 7 p.m.
Meet the new management team and become re-acquainted with the shelter.
The Cat Adopt-a-Thon runs March 16-18, with discount prices on all cats.
Senior cats five years and older get an extra special discount.
For just this weekend, all cat adoptions will receive a Super Pet Cat Kit - ideal for new cat owners.
Stop by, say hello and learn about all the exciting plans that the Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch has in store.
Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch overwhelmed by public support during critical time
BARRIE, ON, (March 4, 2007) - Following a roller coaster week with Pet Food recalls and 'pre-cautionary' warnings, the Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch shelves are full once again. Last week Menu Foods issued a massive pet food recall that forced the disposal of over 90 brands of pet food. The Barrie Branch relies on public donations for its canned food and had to throw out 85% of its canned cat and dog food.
Following a plea for help delivered through the media, local residents have been delivering food and monetary donations to the shelter. On March 30, B101 broadcast its morning show live from the shelter's parking lot promoting a pet food drive. The response was overwhelming. Motorists on their way to work handed cash donations through their car windows, while the corporate community stepped up by issuing challenges to its competitors. The support continued throughout the weekend with donors lining up out the door to give what they could.
Monetary donations to the shelter - including cash, cheques, gift cards, visa and debit - totalled over $10,000. In food, the shelter received several thousand dollars worth. The shelves are full and the extra supplies have been put into storage. However, storage right now at the shelter is limited due to a large number of dogs. In the last week, the shelter has seen a large increase in the number of dogs needing homes. For those looking for a dog, please stop by the shelter at 91 Patterson Road for a great selection of great dogs.
Community/Media Relations Coordinator
Barrie SPCA
Phone: 705-728-7311
Fax: 705-728-7243
56 dogs surrendered and one removed from Essa Township property. Investigation ongoing.
BARRIE, ON, (January 11, 2007) - An investigation is ongoing following the surrender of 56 husky-type dogs, and the removal of one husky-type dog, from an Essa Township property.
On January 3, 2007 Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch investigators attended the property to monitor compliance with previous Ontario SPCA Orders to improve the dogs’ living conditions. During the inspection the owner surrendered four dogs. One dog was removed by the Ontario SPCA to receive immediate veterinary attention due to a collar embedded in its skin, an injured paw and neurological issues. Following the removal the Ontario SPCA has continued to collect evidence and charges may be laid. The owner later surrendered the dog to the Ontario SPCA.
The Ontario SPCA returned to the property on January 5, 2007 to remove an additional 44 dogs surrendered by the owner. Included were 15 puppies. Ontario SPCA veterinary examination determined that the majority of the surrendered dogs were suffering from internal parasites. An additional seven dogs were surrendered January 9, 2007.
Due to the large number of animals surrendered, Ontario SPCA branches and affiliated humane societies are working together to provide sheltering and veterinary care to the dogs, as well as assisting with adoptions. This includes: Ontario SPCA Orangeville & District Branch, Ontario SPCA York Region Branch, Ontario SPCA Perth County Branch, Peterborough Humane Society and Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society.
"This coordinated effort between Ontario SPCA branches and affiliated humane societies is a great example of what we can do for animal welfare when we work together and pool our resources," says Hugh Coghill, Ontario SPCA Acting Chief Inspector.
An additional four puppies are being surrendered in early February when they have completed nursing and can be separated from their mother (who the owner has chosen to keep).
Ontario SPCA investigators will continue to monitor the property and the condition of the remaining animals to ensure compliance with outstanding Ontario SPCA Orders to address water, shelter (including moving all kennels onto raised platforms to keep the dogs dry), and veterinary issues (parasite control). The investigation initially began in November 2006, at which time the owner surrendered one dog.
Subject to the results of the investigation charges may be laid at a later date.
To report suspected animal abuse call the Ontario SPCA at 1-888-ONT-SPCA (668-7722) extension 1, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), your local Ontario SPCA Branch, affiliated humane society or police.
Media Contact:
Hugh Coghill
Ontario SPCA Acting Chief Inspector
1-888-ONT-SPCA (668-7722) ext. 342
or hcoghill@ospca.on.ca
For adoption enquiries, please contact:
Ontario SPCA Barrie Branch: 705-728-7311
Ontario SPCA Orangeville & District Branch: 519-942-3140
Ontario SPCA York Region Branch: 905-898-7122 ext. 306
Ontario SPCA Perth County Branch: 519-273-6600
Peterborough Humane Society: 705-745-4722
Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society: 519-745-5615