Mar 27, 2013 1 min read

Two Chartiers Township dog owners were found guilty Wednesday of eight charges of animal cruelty stemming from an incident earlier this year.

Marci Klinzing and William E. Moore of 8 Crossroads Road were cited by Washington County Humane Officer Logan Wade with cruelty to animals. The citations indicate the couple failed to provide adequate food and shelter or veterinary care to eight animals.

District Judge David Mark found the pair guilty on each citation. They were fined $300 for each citation along with $140 in court costs. Each owes $3,524 in fines and costs.

Township police reported to the Washington Area Humane Society they received a complaint Jan. 17 regarding an underweight dog. A township employee told police that the animal looked malnourished and its ribs were visible.

The affidavit supporting the search warrant served at their home Jan. 24 indicated at least 20 complaints had been received. Eight animals were removed and remain in the custody of the humane society.

Moore, on the day the animals were removed, told a reporter that he spends $100 every two weeks on food for the dogs. He said he fed and watered the animals every day.

The couple can appeal the case to Washington County Court.