Felony Charges Filed in Case Involving 383 Neglected Animals in Laton, CA

On Monday, May 21, 2018, charges were filed against the “no-kill” rescue, Laton Animal Rescue, for neglecting 383 animals. Kimber Lee Colvin was charged with seven felony counts of animal cruelty and neglect (Case #F18903352). 383 animals were relinquished and/or seized between December 2015 and March 2016 from Laton Animal Rescue following a complaint made about a suspected neglect situation. The CCSPCA found the dogs, livestock, and equines at the “no-kill” rescue were suffering from a variety of medical conditions and lacked basic care. Additionally, seven dogs were found with a severe skin disease, five tested positive for sarcoptic mange, and two tested positive for demodectic mange. 82% of the dogs that were tested were positive for ehrlichia. 87 tested positive for anaplasmosis and 72 tested positive for internal parasites, consisting of roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms and coccidia. A majority of the tested dogs were inflicted with one or more medical conditions. A necropsy on two deceased Zebu cattle found on the property determined the cause of death to be starvation.Many of the dogs were successfully treated and were able to find loving forever homes, but we are saddened to report that a large number of them were humanely euthanized. This decision was difficult, but due to the severity of the untreated conditions caused by the “no-kill” rescue’s negligence, we needed to end their needless suffering.Because of the widely recognized link between animal cruelty and domestic violence/abuse, we appreciate the District Attorney’s office for recognizing the importance of prosecuting animal cruelty cases. We would also like to extend a special thank you to the Fresno Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in this case.CCSPCA Humane Officers hold the same powers of Peace Officers in the state of California when investigating animal cruelty. The CCSPCA is a non-profit corporation that relies on donations for its programs and services, including animal cruelty investigations. To report animal cruelty and neglect call (559) 233-7722 or visit Central California SPCA.