FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JANUARY 12, 2022
CHARGES FILED IN ANIMAL WELFARE CHECK GORE PASS SUBDIVISION
GRAND COUNTY, CO- On the morning of Sunday, January 9, 2022, the Grand County Sheriff’s Office received a tip of possible animal neglect at a residence in the Gore Pass subdivision located in unincorporated Grand County. The reporting party had concerns over several dogs that were housed outside on the property. Deputies and Animal Control Officers immediately responded to the property and evaluated the condition of several short-haired mixed breed dogs.
Deputies spoke with the homeowner, Ethridge Hughes, and 15 dogs were transported for evaluation to the Grand County Animal Control and Shelter in Granby to receive a medical evaluation. The dogs are currently being housed at the Animal Shelter and Colorado Humane Society where they are receiving veterinarian monitoring and treatment as necessary. It is anticipated that all of these dogs will recover.
Sheriff Brett Schroetlin stated, “Animal welfare checks are sensitive investigations that naturally bring out high emotions. Our focus is to always ensure the safety of everyone, including animal victims.”
On January 11, 2022, Ethridge Hughes (age 52), was issued a criminal summons for 15 counts of Animal Cruelty / Neglect under Colorado Revised Statute 18-9-202 (Class 1 Misdemeanor). The 15 dogs will remain in the custody of the Grand County Sheriff’s Office pending the outcome of judicial proceedings or another appropriate disposition. These charges are only accusations based on probable cause, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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