Judge Kurt Krueger ordered Douglas Dean Billman to pay a restitution of $6,696 to be distributed to the Chelsea Bailey Butte-Silver Bow Animal Shelter and the rental property owner.
Defense Attorney Frank Joseph had filed a motion for house arrest on behalf of his client, citing mental health issues.
Following a recommendation made by Probation and Parole Officer Susan Carroll for a two-year DOC commitment with all but 30 days suspended, Krueger told Billman he would be required to wear electronic monitoring for at least 30 days as part of an intensive supervision program.
Billman was arrested July 5, 2014, after police responded to a request to “standby” while Animal Control removed dozens of cats from his home on the 900 block of Delaware Street. A doctor from Highlands Veterinary Hospital, according to an affidavit, reported that the environment was “not consistent with maintenance of life.”
Deceased cats in various stages of decomposition, all of which showed signs of cannibalism by the surviving felines, were found in the residence. Fecal matter — up to several feet deep — was present on every surface, the affidavit states.
Fifty-four living cats between the ages of 6 months and 2 years were evacuated from Billman’s home. Twenty-three were euthanized due to dehydration and starvation. The volume of feces indicated the cats were unattended for more than two years.
Billman was originally charged with seven counts of felony aggravated animal cruelty. Six of the counts were dismissed Thursday. He pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated animal cruelty, a felony, in April 2015.
A neighbor of Billman’s parents — with whom he resides — testified that he was not a danger to the community, saying he was “kind and funny,” and provided an invaluable service to his mother and father.
Deputy County Attorney Kelli Fivey argued that Billman was “not cut out” to do jail time and recommended following the plea agreement entered into by the parties.
Joseph concurred with Fivey, adding that his client “truly loves animals” and never intended for the cats to suffer or die.
“Doug is a godsend” to his parents, Joseph said, arguing that the recommended sentence would protect the community and protect his client, and serve as an appropriate punishment.
(MTStandard - May 14, 2016)
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