GREENWOOD, S.C. (LEX 18/THE LAURENS COUNTY ADVERTISER) – A South Carolina woman accused of starving her ex-boyfriend’s dog out of spite will face felony animal abuse charges.
The Laurens County Advertiser, a South Carolina newspaper, reports that a grand jury indicted Elizabeth Lena James earlier this week, according to the 8th Circuit Solicitor’s Office.
James was arrested in August by Laurens County Sheriff’s deputies after a concerned neighbor reported animal abuse to local authorities. Reportedly officers from animal control say the Rotweiller-Mastiff mix was chained in James’ back yard and starved for a month.
Reports indicate the dog, renamed Champ, weighed only 50 pounds, which is less than half of what his healthy body weight should have been, at the time of his rescue. Rescuers say Champ was infested with maggots and hookworms and had to receive several blood transfusions to survive.
Champ’s story quickly gained national attention
An animal advocacy group “Rescue Dogs Rock” of New York City raised money to pay for Champ’s treatment and pressed officials to pursue felony charges against James.
(Photo courtesy of the “Justice For Champ” Facebook Page)
With the grand jury’s indictment on felony animal abuse charges, James could face a minimum of 180 days with a maximum of five years in jail and a fine of up to $5,000.
Champ is now happy and healthy, according to a Facebook page set up for him. To follow Champ’s recovery on Facebook: click here.
