Freeman, 40, appeared in Syracuse City Court today as plea negotiations continue. Her court-appointed lawyer, Jessica Senn, disputed several of the assertions made by the landlord, Walter Scammell, who said the chained animal was abandoned in 30 pounds of excrement buried beneath the floorboards.
Senn said in court that Freeman had a dispute with the landlord over payments. She argued that Freeman actually did have someone watching the animal and that Freeman still lived in the building at the time.
Senn said discussions with a previous prosecutor had resulted in a possible plea to disorderly conduct if Freeman was sentenced to community service. But Assistant District Attorney Maureen Barry said today that was not an option.
Much of the discussion before City Court Judge Theodore Limpert centered on why the dog needed to be euthanized.
Senn argued that the dog had a pre-existing medical condition and may not be related to her client's actions. Barry said she was trying to reach the doctor who treated the animal for more information.
The case was started by the local SPCA chapter. A criminal complaint accuses Freeman of leaving the dog tied to a three-foot chain in a urine and feces-soaked attic.
The dog's condition improved for awhile after it was rescued. Senn was surprised to hear in court today that the dog could not be saved.
(Syracuse.com - Mar 2, 2014)
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