Henry Wilfong Jr

Man accused of abusing about 50 animals

St. Joseph, MO

April 24, 2006

Henry Wilfong, Jr.  originally pleaded not guilty on April 24^th in Judge Keith Marquart’s Fifth District Courtroom, after being charged with animal abuse for not providing adequate care for his animals.  Based on a probable cause statement, the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Department found 38 dogs, 7 chickens, 2 rabbits and a duck at Wilfong’s home.

Animal Control and Rescue Manager, Rick Smith assisted the Sheriff’s Department during a search of Wilfong’s home. Of the 38 dogs taken into custody, 12 were adopted and 2 were sent to another shelter.  26 dogs were euthanized due to mange.

Wilfong has a prior arrest in 1997 for animal cruelty.  He pled guilty to neglecting 30 pets at that time and paid a total of $3,500 in fines and restitution.

Wilfong will return to court on May 24^th.

Update 8/3/06:

a judge sentenced Wilfong to 1 year in jail but he will only serve 14 days plus 2 years probation.  Wilfong will be allowed to own animals but he must allow St. Joseph Animal Control and the Buchanan County Sheriff's Department to randomly inspect his home.

Reference:

KQ2 News