Judge chastises man who neglected his dogs

YOUNGSTOWN

A judge chastised a Youngstown man for neglecting five dogs and threatened to sentence him to jail after convicting him today of animal cruelty.

Because William Clemons, 46, of North Gray Ave., still owns and cares for six other dogs, Youngstown Municipal Court Judge Elizabeth A. Kobly instead sentenced him to 60 days of house arrest at his expense and one year of probation. She also fined him $250 and ordered him to pay $1,200 to the Animal Charity Humane Society for medical bills for the five dogs.

Clemons was charged with the misdemeanor on March 13, 2014.

About 30 animal-rights activists stood outside city hall before Clemons case chanting, “No more delays.”

The case was delayed three times: twice because of a trial conflict with Clemons’ attorney and once because the judge was ill.

After the case, the activists – many who sat in the courtroom during the sentencing – said they were pleased with the sentence. Also, the five dogs, who were emaciated when taken from Clemons by Animal Charity, can now be adopted.

For the complete story, read Friday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com