Columbus, Ohio (October 16, 2019) – Britny and Douglas DeVaul, a Grove City couple facing animal cruelty charges, paid bond Tuesday for 30 days of care on five of the 161 companion animals seized from their property on August 13.
On September 30 Judge Stephanie Mingo found probable cause for the removal of 161 companion animals by Columbus Humane from the DeVaul’s property in August. Owners Britny & Douglas DeVaul were required to pay bond by October 15 for cost of the first 30 days of care for the animals impounded in order to retain interest in ownership at the close of the case. The defendants paid bond on two cats and three dogs, which totaled $3,365.17. These animals will remain in the care and custody of Columbus Humane until the case is concluded and ownership is awarded. The DeVauls must continue to pay cost of care for the five animals in order to retain interest in ownership at the end of the case.
Ownership of the remaining 156 companion animals including dogs, cats and reptiles, is now awarded to Columbus Humane.
“We are so relieved that the next chapter for these amazing animals can begin,” said CEO Rachel Finney. “Our team worked so hard to get the animals healthy and now we are eager to find each pet a loving home.”
Columbus Humane expects many of the animals will be available for adoption within 10 days and ColumbusHumane.org and associated social media pages will have updates with adoptable animals. The majority of puppies will likely be available for adoption next week.
The DeVauls face misdemeanor charges of “prohibitions concerning companion animals” for animals confined on their property, many as part of their dog and reptile breeding and puppy brokering businesses. Further animal cruelty charges for livestock and the pets removed from The Petting Zoo Pet Shop on West Broad Street are pending. The couple also operates a taxidermy business at their home.
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About Columbus Humane
Columbus Humane, founded in 1883, provides programs and services for animals and people in Central Ohio. It is our mission to fight animal cruelty, help animals in need and advocate for their well-being. We are a non-profit law enforcement agency investigating reports of animal cruelty abuse and neglect in Franklin County. Columbus Humane investigates more than 6,000 reports of animal cruelty and neglect in Franklin County annually. For more information about Columbus Humane, please visit www.columbushumane.org.
