Ann Arbor, MI (March 4, 2022) — Faced with a repeat felony charge of Cruelty/Neglect to more than 25 animals, Ypsilanti resident Suzanne Marie Thompson reportedly will make a plea bargain for Abandonment/Cruelty to 2-3 animals, a misdemeanor.

In November 2020, Cruelty Investigators at the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) executed a search warrant on Thompson’s residence, seizing 21 cats and 1 dog due to the severity of the situation. Several of the animals were emaciated, and many had untreated medical issues.

All animals seized received veterinary care and behavioral treatment at HSHV and have been since adopted into new, loving homes.

Thompson has a long history of animal hoarding and neglect. In addition to 2020, HSHV Investigators have seized animals from Thompson four times since 2006. In February 2013, Thompson’s house was condemned due to unsanitary conditions, and she was charged with animal cruelty and sentenced to 2 years’ probation and $500 in restitution.

Sentencing for Thompson for this most recent charge is scheduled for April 7 at 9 a.m. in front of the Honorable Judge Erane Washington. As with other cases in the 14-B District Court, it will be streamed live on YouTube.

“Though we often see hoarder-type neglect with large scale breeders, as we just did in Traverse City, animal hoarding is commonly associated with serious mental health issues. But without mandatory treatment and ongoing monitoring, the situation sadly never changes,” says Tanya Hilgendorf, HSHV’s CEO. “The recidivism rate is extremely high; the individuals remain sick, more animals suffer, and shelters face overcrowding and challenges helping sick and traumatized animals. No one wins when animal cruelty is taken lightly. We’re so grateful to donors who help us take care of these special needs animals, adopters willing to give them a good home, and all those who step up and speak out for animals and people.”

People in Washtenaw County are reminded to call HSHV’s cruelty hotline at (734) 661-3512 or report online if they suspect animal abuse or neglect.

About The Humane Society of Huron Valley:
The Humane Society of Huron Valley, located in Ann Arbor, is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and relies solely on the generosity of our supporters to provide critical community programs and services. HSHV is an award-winning organization, recognized for our best practices and highest animal “save-rate” among all similar shelters in Michigan. Charity Navigator, the nation’s top charity evaluator, awarded HSHV a 4-star ranking, the highest possible. The mission of HSHV is to promote the loving, responsible care of all animals in our community. HSHV is not affiliated with any other humane organization and does not receive funding from the United Way. More information can be found on HSHV’s website (hshv.org) and on our annual report (hshv.org/annualreport).

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