School Teacher Faces Felony Animal Abuse Charges for Starving Cats
Posted by April Nockleby, ALDF's Online Content Manager on August 7th, 2009
Allison Dinsmore, a middle school teacher in Palm Beach County, Florida, is facing felony charges of animal cruelty for allegedly abandoning her two cats for weeks, leaving them to die horrible deaths by starvation in her apartment. Dinsmore reportedly cited her busy work schedule, long commute and a camping trip as reasons for her failure to see to the cats’ needs (she had essentially moved out of the apartment and had been staying elsewhere). Seeking information as to unpaid rent, Dinsmore’s property manager discovered the cats’ bodies and notified authorities on February 23, 2009. The school district has since suspended her teaching duties – with pay – pending the outcome of the criminal case. A court date of August 20, 2009 is currently set.
What You Can Do
Send a polite letter to State Attorney Michael F. McAuliffe, thanking him for his work to date on the case and encouraging a strong and meaningful sentence upon conviction.
Locals are encouraged to support the prosecution by attending court proceedings.
Court information:
Palm Beach County Circuit Court
Main Branch
205 North Dixie Highway
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Phone: 561-355-2431
case #502009CF004107A
(Always contact the Court to confirm court dates as they are subject to change.)
