Two Calgary homeowners were sentenced Thursday after they pleaded guilty to animal cruelty charges related to the seizure of 92 animals in 2014.
Dozens of rabbits and hamsters plus a dog and cat were found in unsanitary living conditions in the Erinwoods home; about a quarter had to be euthanized.
Anthony and Christine Berry each received a $6,900 fine and a lifetime ban on owning or residing with animals, except a single spayed or neutered cat or dog.
Court heard Anthony suffers from depression and his probation involves mandatory counselling.
“I am glad the courts realize that I have certain psychological needs that need to be addressed,” he told Global News.
The couple’s pending divorce proceedings were also taken into account as part of a request the judge granted for an extension for payment of fines.
“They could have fined me $50,000, but losing my relationship was the worst thing that could have happened.”
The Calgary Humane Society said the Berrys were “rabbit enthusiasts” who were heavily involved in the show community.
During the Aug. 30, 2014 seizure, which was enacted with the help of Calgary police, the Calgary Humane Society said a peace officer was assaulted and threatened.
After the sentencing, Calgary Humane Society spokesperson Brad Nichols said he was encouraged to see the case taken seriously by the courts.
“This case encapsulates many of our greatest concerns from the various types of severe neglect and hoarding, to the danger our officers faced when the owner became violent,” Nichols said in a statement. “This sentence reflects both the punitive aspect of the offences while also taking into account future animals with the prohibition.”
The statement said Anthony was remanded for several months prior to entering a guilty plea due to the assault on a peace officer and uttering threats in association with the seizure.
Watch below: Global’s September 2014 coverage of the case
With files from Global’s Mia Sosiak