Animal Neglect Arrest in Albany

PHOTO: Albany Police Department

(Albany, Oregon) - On Thursday, at about 11:00 a.m., Albany Police Officers arrested 26-year-old Albany resident Erica Michelle Olsen in connection with an ongoing animal neglect investigation.

Erica Olsen was lodged in the Linn County Jail on a charge of Animal Neglect in the First Degree and an unrelated Linn County warrant charging Fail to Comply.

This investigation began on November 8, 2010, when the Albany Police Department received a report of an emaciated English Mastiff at 2003 SE 17th Avenue. A Community Service Officer went to the home and was able to see into the backyard and confirm the report. Over the next day the Community Service Officer and Police Officers attempted, unsuccessfully, to contact a resident at the home.

On November, 9, 2010, members of the Albany Police Department seized the dog, which was severely malnourished and unable to walk. The dog was taken to the Albany Animal Hospital, located at 629 SE Madison Street, to be examined and treated. The dog, a 5-year-old English Mastiff named Hank, had been living in a lean-to in the backyard with no signs of food or fresh water.

Hank weighed only 65 pounds, nearly 100 pounds under his recommended weight. The examination concluded that the Hank did not suffer from any disease or parasites that might account for his low weight. Hank's health is improving and he will soon be turned over to the Safe Haven Humane Society of Linn County.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the Albany Police Department at 541-917-7680.

News Release from: Albany Police