Waipahu Woman Opts for Judge’s Verdict Over Jury in Animal Cruelty Case

HONOLULU — A Waipahu woman entered a not guilty plea to a charge of misdemeanor animal cruelty during a court appearance via Zoom on Wednesday. The allegation stems from an incident captured on a doorbell camera video that went viral, showing a woman mistreating a dog. Heather Hinkle, the defendant, chose to forego a jury trial, opting instead for a bench trial where a judge will determine her fate. The decision followed her formal waiver of the right to a jury, conducted during the virtual court session. During the proceedings, the presiding District Court judge … Read more

Investor Alert: Lawsuit Filed Against Elanco Animal Health for Alleged Securities Law Violations

New York — A prominent securities law firm, Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP, has filed a lawsuit against Elanco Animal Health Incorporated and some of its top executives alleging violations of federal securities laws. This legal action, initiated in the U.S. District Court of Maryland, addresses concerns within the financial community regarding the company’s recent disclosures. The lawsuit, officially noted as Barpar v. Elanco Animal Health Incorporated, et al., Case No. 24-cv-02912, claims misconduct under specific sections of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, reflecting the interests of stakeholders in Elanco’s securities. The focus of … Read more

New Health Regulations Impose Restrictions on Reporting Animal Scratch Injuries

As horse racing enthusiasts gear up for major races, regulatory gaps loom large over the industry. A recent examination reveals that horse racing’s oversight bodies often cite health regulations when failing to fully disclose information about racehorse scratches — instances when horses are withdrawn from races. This lack of transparency is a growing concern for bettors and animal welfare advocates alike. Scratches can occur for a variety of reasons, including health issues, track conditions, or administrative decisions, but the specifics are seldom disclosed beyond citing “health laws.” This discretion leaves room for speculation and concern … Read more

Former Animal Shelter Worker Sentenced to 20 Years for Extreme Cruelty to Kittens

Weatherford, TX – A former animal care technician at a local shelter has been sentenced to two consecutive terms of ten years each for the torture and death of kittens under his care. Gabriel Skyler Caswell, 22, received the legal maximum punishment for cruelty to a non-livestock animal in two separate trials concerning the abuse at the Weatherford Parker County Animal Shelter. In each case, Caswell did not testify, and District Judge Craig Towson presided over both trials. Each jury, in a swift decision, imposed a $10,000 fine, reflecting the severity of the offenses. The … Read more