This continuing legal education (CLE) program provides a comprehensive overview of the legal and practical issues involved in prosecuting companion animal cruelty and neglect cases under Chapter 959 of the Ohio Revised Code. Together, these panels will equip practitioners with the legal knowledge, practical tools, and strategic insights needed to effectively handle animal cruelty and neglect cases from investigation through sentencing.
AGENDA
1:00 – 2:00 pm Introduction to Animal Cruelty & Neglect Laws
Panelists: Sharon Harvey (Cleveland APL), Carole Heyward (CSU Law), Vicki Deisner (Ohio Animal Advocates) Moderator: Kailey Leary
This panel will give a brief overview of the history of federal, state and local laws protecting animals from cruelty and neglect. The panel will then focus on the protection of companion animals under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 959 and the Link between animal cruelty and domestic violence.
2:00 – 3:00 pm Investigating Animal Cruelty & Neglect
Panelists: Isadora Almaro(Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Cuyahoga County), DanaMarie Pannella (Holland & Muirden) Chief Humane Agent Joe Dell’Anno (Cleveland APL), Dr. Michelle Gonzalez, DVM, MS.
Moderator: Carole Heyward (CSU Law)
This panel will focus on the effective investigative practices, unique difficulties presented by companion animals as crime victims and the particular investigative challenges presented in cruelty and neglect cases. The panel will also address locating and effectively using expert witnesses to assist with investigation.
3:00 – 3:15 pm Break
3:15 – 4:15 pm Charging Decisions in Cruelty Cases
Panelists: Isadora Almaro (Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, Cuyahoga County), Chief Humane Agent Joe Dell’Anno (Cleveland APL), DanaMarie Pannella (Holland & Muirden), Dr. Michelle Gonzalez, DVM, MS.
Moderator: Carole Heyward
This panel will focus on the strategic and policy reasons underlying the decision to charge an animal cruelty and neglect case as a felony or misdemeanor.
3:45 – 4:15 pm Advocating for Appropriate Sentencing
Panelists: Isadora Almaro, Sharon Harvey, DanaMarie Pannella (Holland & Muirden), Chief Humane Agent Joe Dell’Anno (Cleveland APL),
Moderator: Kailey Leary
This panel will discuss strategies for sentencing advocacy, including presenting aggravating or mitigating factors, addressing rehabilitation and deterrence, and ensuring outcomes that promote both justice and animal welfare.
4:15 to 4:30pm Q&A