HSSC statement regarding French Press

The Humane Society of Summit County received a report concerning a dog that was being improperly tethered and kept without adequate food, water, or shelter. Following an investigation, Humane Agents determined that the dog’s condition and manner of confinement were in violation of applicable animal neglect and tethering laws. The dog was seized on June 26, 2026 for its protection.

A probable cause hearing was scheduled to provide the owner with an opportunity to challenge the seizure or resolve the matter. Prior to the hearing, the owner was given an opportunity, through his attorney, to discuss resolution. The owner declined to resolve the matter and would not acknowledge that the dog’s condition or circumstances were unacceptable. The matter therefore proceeded to a probable cause hearing.

Following testimony and consideration of the evidence, the Court determined that the Humane Agent had probable cause to believe that the dog was being kept in violation of Ohio’s animal neglect laws. The Court ordered that the owner post a bond if he wished to maintain ownership of the dog while the matter proceeded.

The owner did not post the bond. He did not contact the Humane Society before the bond expired, nor did he request an extension of the deadline via the Court. As a result, the Humane Society moved the Court to forfeit the owner’s interest in the dog so that the dog could be placed in a new home. The Court granted that request, and ownership of the dog was forfeited to the Humane Society on August 11, 2026.

The Humane Society did not receive any further contact from the owner concerning the dog until well after the matter had been heard and decided by the Court and after the opportunity to maintain or reclaim ownership of the dog had expired.

All of these proceedings are matters of public record. The mission of the Humane Society of Summit County is to protect animals experiencing abuse, neglect, or abandonment as defined by the Ohio Revised Code and to advocate for their welfare and safety.