Saturday, July 14, 2012

Madison couple charged with two counts of animal cruelty; 45 other charges suspended

ALABAMA -- After pleading guilty to all 47 counts of animal cruelty during a court arraignment Friday, James and Patricia Lin of Madison were found guilty of two charges and fined $1,772, according to Madison Police Lt. Terrell Cook.

On June 14, the Lins, who were discovered to have 86 dogs, including one which was dead, after someone reported a foul odor coming from their Crestview Drive Home.


Of the 85 live dogs, 47 had to be euthanized.

The other 45 counts were suspended, but the Lins could face prosecution if they violate any portion of the judgment, which includes not having any dogs in the city limits of Madison, said Cook. They must also pay several nonprofit animal rescue organizations and one veterinary hospital for their services.

"They were incredibly humble and very embarrassed and humiliated," said Cook. "They were very, very cooperative and thankful that we stepped in. They took in a few dogs and they just multiplied. They didn't want to give them to a shelter for fear they would be euthanized. They weren't aware there were organizations out there who could help them such as MARF and The Ark."

[They're humble and embarassed?! How about apologetic for causing the torment, torture, suffering and death of DOZENS OF ANIMALS?!]

Nina Beal, founder of The Ark, took in six adults, including two females which just had puppies, none which are available for adoption until next week. However, two males are up for adoption and may be seen at The Ark, 139 Bo-Cole Road.

James Lin, 73, and Patricia Lin, 71, were ordered to pay $500 to MARF and The Ark, $200 to Madison Small Paws and All-American Dachshund Rescue and $100 to the Pet Hospital of Madison.

One of the Lin's hoarded dogs
Cook said they have already paid $800 to Whitworth Animal Hospital when the dogs were first discovered and taken there for emergency care.
The Lins also had to move out of their house and can't move back in until it is cleaned and disinfected and they notify the city.

(Huntsville Times - July 13, 2012)
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