From the Humboldt County District Attorney’s Office:

On November 15, a Humboldt County jury convicted 68-year-old Chris David Dickens of Trinidad of felony animal cruelty.

The case began on June 12, 2015, when the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) responded to a property in Trinidad where they found a horse named Remington suffering from an injury which had severed the tendons in his left rear leg, which had become infected. Subsequent investigation by the HCSO’s Animal Control Division revealed that Mr. Dickens, who was responsible for Remington, took no action to attempt to treat what he knew to be a crippling injury that caused suffering. Remington’s advanced stage of infection and tendon damage required that he be humanely euthanized. 

HCSO Deputy Pamela Wilcox (ret.) and HCSO Animal Control Officer Andre Hall investigated the case. Dr. Bruce Carlisle of North Coast Veterinary Hospital provided humane treatment of Remington and also served as a witness. Deputy District Attorney Tobias Hasler prosecuted the case with the help of District Attorney Investigator Alan Aubuchon.

The District Attorney’s Office appreciates the efforts of HCSO personnel, Dr. Carlisle, and the jurors who gave their time and attention during the trial. 

Judge Feeney is scheduled to sentence the defendant on December 17th.  The defendant faces a maximum of 3 years in jail.