(GREENSTONE, ON) – On February 7, 2017, Greenstone Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) began an investigation into a report of a group of neglected dogs located at a cabin just north of the Lower Flat Rapids area in Ginoogaming, First Nation Territory.
Police located fifteen dogs at the cabin with various injuries and health problems. Among the fifteen dogs three were deceased. The Greenstone OPP continued this investigation with the assistance of Thunder Bay, Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) agents and all animals were transported to the Thunder Bay Humane Society for treatment and examination.
As a result of this joint investigation, the dog owners have been charged with multiple criminal offences. 43 year old John Onabigon of Ginoogaming, First Nation Territory is charged with:
Cruelty to animals – unnecessary pain and suffering or injury, contrary to section 445.1(1)(a) of the Criminal Code
Causing damage or injury to animal or bird – fail to provide suitable/adequate food, water, care and shelter, contrary to section 446(1)(b) of the Criminal Code
Killing, injuring, or endangering animals other than cattle, contrary to section 445(1)(a) of the Criminal Code
45 year old Gwendolen Onabigon of Ginoogaming, First Nation Territory faces the same charges pending her arrest.
On March 31, 2017, 16 additional dogs owned by the couple were surrendered to Greenstone OPP and Thunder Bay SPCA agents and have been transported to the Thunder Bay Humane Society for assessment.