Indiana prosecutor forms animal advisory committee

LAFAYETTE, Ind. (AP) - A northern Indiana prosecutor has formed an advisory committee to help amid an increase in animal abuse cases.

The Journal and Courier reports Tippecanoe County Prosecutor Patrick Harrington recently announced the project as a way to help prosecute the increasing number of animal abuse cases at his office.

The committee with include a deputy prosecutor, animal control officers from the county and Lafayette, and local animal advocates.

Harrington noted that one recent animal cruelty case was difficult to prosecute due to lack of information. Harrington said prosecutors had trouble tracking down where specific dogs went after 64 dogs and eight birds were found in unsanitary conditions at a man's home.

The man later served two weeks in jail and paid a fine after being sentenced in June.

Animal advocate Sharon Dull was among the dozens of volunteers who documented the dogs and birds. Dull, who is part of the committee, said there are few prosecutors who are willing to take on such cases.

"I'm glad they're pursing it," Dull said. "I'm glad they're paying attention. It's a much needed board."

Nita Pollock, co-owner of Crystal Creek Kennels, also serves on the new committee. She said prosecutors are "going to give us a list of what they need to prosecute."

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Information from: Journal and Courier, http://www.jconline.com