OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) – An Omaha woman made her first court appearance Wednesday in connection with a case of animal neglect.

Sherry Dale, 60, was charged with one count of animal cruelty resulting in injury or death — a Class IV felony.

Her bond is set at $25,000, according to court documents.

Dale’s preliminary hearing is set for Dec. 27. She faces up to two years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine.

She was arrested on Monday in connection with a Pitbull named “Choppa” who was found in terrible condition two months ago.

Humane Society officers noted that Choppa was extremely weak and lethargic. He had to be put down because of the severity of his illnesses.

An autopsy report came back with evidence of severe malnutrition.

Her court appearance is set for 9 a.m

GRAPHIC WARNING: Some may find the details of this story disturbing.

DCSO says on September 14, the Nebraska Humane Society was called to Dale’s residence after a tip from a concerned citizen. When they arrived, animal control officers found “Choppa,” a gray Pitbull, suffering from several health issues. They said Choppa was completely emaciated and had open, maggot-infested wounds on his body.

According to the arrest warrant, animal control officers said Choppa tried to stand up but “immediately fell flat on his face and was unable to regain the strength to stand on his own again.” Ultimately, they decided to humanely euthanize him due to the severity of his illnesses.

After taking the dog to a vet, officers were notified that Dale had already called asking why Choppa had been removed from her property and confirmed that she was his owner. The staff apparently told him why, but Dale stated that if there was anything wrong with the dog, it was just because he was “25 years old”. Shortly thereafter, officers attempted to contact Dale but were unable to apprehend her.

An autopsy revealed Choppa had an extreme lack of body fat and a bladder infection among many other internal problems, but the medical examiner said the open wounds and lacerations would have been visible to the naked eye and any layman would have had to he knows the dog needed treatment. .

The doctor’s analysis led DCSO to file a felony charge against Dale last Wednesday.

Copyright 2024 WOWT. All rights reserved.