Plea deal for Coventry woman in animal cruelty case regarding German Shepherd, Hanz

COVENTRY, R.I. — A Coventry woman has accepted a plea deal after being charged with animal cruelty following the discovery of an emaciated German Shepherd in her home.

Caitlyn Pelton, 25, pleaded no contest Wednesday to a charge of unnecessary cruelty to animals for failing to provide her dog, Hanz, with adequate food and water.

Photos: Coventry Police Department

As part of the plea deal, Pelton received a one-year filing, meaning her case could be expunged if she avoids any legal trouble for the next 12 months. She must also complete 50 hours of community service, pay restitution to the Coventry Animal Control, and is banned from owning animals in the future.

Coventry Animal Control officers were called to Pelton’s home on Circlewood Drive on December 19 for a welfare check. Officers found Hanz confined to a sunroom with no access to food or water. Police reported that the German Shepherd was severely emaciated, with ribs, hips, and spine clearly visible through his skin.

Hanz was promptly removed from the home and taken to an emergency animal hospital, where he received treatment and made a full recovery. He has since been adopted and is living in his new home.