A puppy mill operator, who was previously convicted for keeping animals in atrocious conditions, has been sentenced to prison after violating probation, according to We Are Iowa news.
In September 2023, Joel Paris was forced to surrender his breeding license after nearly 100 dogs were found living in a dreadful environment at his breeding facility in Iowa. In July 2024, almost 50 more dogs were rescued.
Many of them had severely matted fur, along with medical and behavioral issues.
After pleading guilty to four counts of animal neglect, he received a $2,145 fine, a 25-hour community service sentence, and was required to make restitution payments.
Paris was also sentenced to a maximum of five years in prison, which was then suspended on the condition that he complied with his probation.
Following the discovery of more dogs on his properties in October 2024, his probation was revoked, and he is now serving prison time. Thankfully, all dogs were removed by law enforcement.
Lady Freethinker wants to remind everyone to avoid supporting puppy mills or breeders by only adopting from shelters and rescues. We are glad to see justice served in this instance and share this story as a reminder to always #AdoptDontShop.