SHERBURNE – A Sherburne man was arrested Monday and authorities say the man’s failure to provide food and shelter for his dog resulted in the dog’s death.
Michael E. Holbert, 31, Sherburne, was charged with one count of misdemeanor animal cruelty, which is in violation of New York State Agriculture and Markets Law.
The investigation was conducted by the New York State Troopers, members of the Bureau of Criminal Investigation from State Police Norwich, and Rick Crowell, the local Dog Control Officer.
According to authorities, the investigation stemmed from a social media post that reported the dog’s condition.
“The post was shared, then seen by animal rights advocates, including the People of the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA),” read a release from the NYSP.
The involved advocates then reported their suspicions to the authorities who then launched their investigation.
It is required by New York State Agriculture and Markets Law that people must provide adequate food, water and shelter, and they prevent their animals from being unjustly injured.
The State Police encourage the public that it is imperative to ensure animals that are left outside — especially during the cold weather as of late — have adequate shelter against the cold, food and water that won’t freeze and is replenished often.
Based on Holbert’s charge, it is alleged that he failed to provide those provisions for his dog who then died.
Rick Crowell, the Sherburne Dog Control Officer said that he did not get the initial call, but State Police received the information from Facebook and then State Police called Crowell in to investigate the situation and Crowell learned that PETA became involved.
The information on the sherburne.org website for the Dog Control Officer is out of date and incorrect, which is why Crowell was not contacted beforehand.
“I found out the dog was deceased, buried out back in a snow bank,” said Crowell.
Crowell added that he drives approximately 80 miles per night checking to make sure all animals in his territory are properly sheltered. “If there is a dog outside inadequately, you’ll be ticketed, and the State Police are 100 percent behind me.”
According to the legislation, said Crowell, a dog’s proper outside shelter has to be an insulated dog house that is large enough for the breed. Food and water must also be provided.
“We need stronger laws and heavier fines for these offenses,” said Crowell. “With the low fines these people just do it again.”
Crowell added that he has applied for 501c3 nonprofit status and is in the works of getting everything in order to build a no-kill animal shelter on his property. He said he is then applying for grants to get it up and running.
“I need people’s help,” said Crowell with regard to the welfare of animals in the area. “They are my ears and eyes.”
“I do what I do because I love dogs, and it is worth it for me,” he said. “If you see something wrong, contact me and let me know so it can get taken care of.”
An appearance ticket was issued to Holbert, according to NYSP Public Information Officer Trooper Nathan Riegal. Riegal said Holbert is to appear in the Town of Columbus Court on March 4, 2015.
Riegal said the deceased dog was a pit bull.
The Town of Sherburne DCO has a Facebook page where contact can be made to the officer if an individual notices suspicious activity with relation to a dog’s welfare.
Holbert is to appear in court to answer to the charge at a later date. The unclassified misdemeanor is punishable up to one year in local jail, if convicted of the charge.