Police charge three people in relation to animal cruelty incidents
Three people have been charged after two separate incidents of animal cruelty were reported in recent weeks.
On Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, police responded to a call from a local veterinary clinic after an unconscious 11-week-old puppy was brought in after consuming illegal drugs. Investigators attended the veterinary clinic and seized the dog while the veterinary clinic provided life-saving care to the puppy.
On Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024, investigators executed a search warrant on a residence located in the 6000 block of Centre Street N.W., and seized a firearm, ammunition, illegal drugs and stolen property. The City of Calgary Bylaw assisted with the seizure of another dog and nine additional puppies.
As a result, Christie Lee SIMS, 44, of Calgary, and Ryan Clyde BONNELL, 44, of Calgary, have each been charged with:
- One count of causing damage to animals
- One count of unauthorized possession of a firearm
- One count of hazardous storage of a firearm
- Two counts of possession of a controlled substance
SIMS will next appear in court on Tuesday, March 5, 2024. BONNELL will next appear in court on Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024.
The next day, on Wednesday, Feb.7, 2024, police responded to a call from a different local veterinary hospital about a severely injured dog. After the veterinary clinic spoke with the man who brought the injured dog in, there was indication that another dog had been killed. On Thursday, Feb. 8, 2024, investigators executed a search warrant in the 6000 block of 33 Avenue N.W. and seized one firearm. With the assistance of peace officers from the Calgary Humane Society, police also seized two additional dogs.
As a result, Jeffrey Alan MCLARTY, 51, of Calgary has been charged with:
- One count of killing or injuring animals
- One count of cruelty to animals
- One count of causing damage to animals
- One count of criminal harassment
MCLARTY has also been charged with two counts of causing distress under the Animal Protection Act.
MCLARTY will next appear in court on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024.
“We’d like to thank our partners at The City of Calgary, the Calgary Humane Society, as well as members from many units across the Calgary Police Service for their assistance with both investigations,” says Inspector Keith Hurley of the Calgary Police Service. “We are happy to report that all the dogs seized in these investigations have found a safe, happy place to call home.”
Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to contact police by calling 403-266-1234. Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers through any of the following methods:
TALK: 1-800-222-8477
TYPE: www.calgarycrimestoppers.org
APP: P3 Tips
Case # CA24050865/4951 CA24009594/5621
