Pet Rescue operators' trial delayed again, much to protesters' chagrin

By Christy Gutowski Daily Herald Staff
Published: 9/21/2009 2:05 PM

A trial for operators of Bloomingdale's Pet Rescue was postponed again Monday, sparking protest from critics who argue neglected cats and dogs are "rotting in cages" amid delay after delay.
Toting signs such as "No Justice for the Animals," about one dozen peaceful demonstrators took authorities to task for allowing the misdemeanor case to drag on in court for more than a year.
The no-kill animal shelter, in operation more than three decades, long has been the subject of controversy as former clients, volunteers and workers accused the operators of hoarding animals and providing improper care rather than adopting them out to suitable homes.
One year ago, prosecutors charged Pet Rescue President Dale Armon and her director Penny I. Horak with misdemeanor animal cruelty and violation of their duties after several cats and dogs became sick, some to the point they had to be euthanized.
Both women maintain their innocence.
So far, DuPage Associate Judge Ronald Sutter has allowed two trial delays. On Monday, he granted a continuance to allow the defense time to respond to new evidence the prosecution said it uncovered during a recent witness interviews.
"We feel it has gone on far too long," said Kris Nesheim, a protest organizer. "It's beyond frustrating. It is clearly a blatant disregard for the law."
Sutter earlier ordered regular inspections of the shelter at 151 N. Bloomingdale Road. State agriculture officials said they inspect the shelter with a licensed veterinarian two to three times a month.
"I agree this case has dragged on too long," DuPage State's Attorney Joseph Birkett responded, "but my assistants are duty bound to disclose all additional information they uncovered to the defense."
The state agriculture department also has tried to revoke Pet Rescue's operating license, but its administrative hearings on the matter also often have been postponed. And Bloomingdale officials planned a public hearing in December 2008 to revoke Pet Rescue's special-use permit, but the hearing never took place because local officials thought it best not to interfere with the state investigation.
Critics, many of whom said they witnessed atrocities first hand, argue local, county and state officials have allowed the situation to fester far too long.
"This case is completely out of control," said attorney Cherie Travis, who represents those behind the effort to shutter the shelter. "It is absolutely unacceptable that the animals are rotting in cages with the county veterinarian taking care of them and the trial postponed indefinitely."