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PETA weighs in on Greene County animal cruelty case

By Olivia Goudy, For The Greene County Messenger 2 min read

A national animal rights organization sent a letter to the Greene County district attorney Tuesday, asking that if a Wayne Township man is convicted of animal cruelty, she push to take his ability to own or harbor animals “for as long as possible.”

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) urged District Attorney Marjorie Fox to “prosecute William Wilkinson of Spraggs vigorously,” saying the “animals may be in danger.”

On July 25, Wilkinson, 59, allegedly tied his two golden retrievers to the back of his vehicle, telling police it was the only way he could transport them home after they had left the property. In doing so, the dogs sustained several injuries including lacerations to their legs and heads. Police said that the smaller dog passed out from the ropes being so tight.

“To have allegedly dragged these dogs behind a moving vehicle is horrifically cruel,” said Martin Mersereau, director of PETA, in a statement.

“Too often, people who are convicted of crimes against animals walk out of court with a slap on the wrist. We urge Ms. Fox to prevent other animals from suffering at the man’s hands by ensuring that his sentence, if he is convicted, includes a ban on owning or harboring animals.”

Fox did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

PETA is also asking that the dogs not be returned to Wilkinson and that other animals in his care would be removed.

In the letter to Fox, cruelty investigations caseworker Melissa Lewis said, “Even if this alleged act wasn’t committed maliciously, surely, more animals would likely fall prey to what can be characterized only as a stunning lack of judgement.”

The organization also offered to help the county find a permanent placement for both dogs.

Wilkinson was charged with a misdemeanor and summary charge of animal cruelty.

He is scheduled to appear in court for the charges on Thursday.

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