Pennsylvania: Irene Johnson pleaded guilty to animal cruelty; in exchange, gets some dogs returned

PENNSYLVANIA -- A Philadelphia woman in the city’s Holmesburg section is pleading guilty to animal cruelty for the treatment of 13 dogs and four cats. The PSPCA announced the plea on Wednesday.

Officials say that Irene Johnson was keeping the animals in unsanitary conditions in her home on the 7900 block of Marsden Street.

The animals were rescued on March 19 after the PSPCA received a tip from the Philadelphia Police. Ten dogs and four cats were signed over to the PSPCA and three dogs were returned to Johnson after the home’s conditions were deemed to be suitable.

At this time, one dog named Princess, as well as two cats, remain with the PSPCA and are available for adoption.

Jerry Buckley, CEO of the PSPCA, released the following statement:

“The Pennsylvania SPCA is pleased with the outcome of this case which illustrates that there are situations when it is appropriate to return the animals to their owner. It has always been our mission to protect animals and prevent cruelty, but also to educate people throughout the region on how to properly care for animals.

"The PSPCA’s Humane Law Enforcement team will continue to monitor the situation through inspection, as well as work with Ms. Johnson to ensure she has the tools to properly care for her animals. It is our hope that she will fulfill her obligation to her animals and make the restitution that has been ordered to cover the costs incurred while the animals were in our care.”

The PSPCA urges anyone who may suspect animal abuse to contact their cruelty hotline at 866-601-SPCA.

(CBS Local - April 27 2016)