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| Trial Date Set for Abingdon Couple Accused of Animal Cruelty |
An Abingdon couple charged separately in connection with the deaths of several animals in their home last summer will have bench trials on the same day next month.
30-year old Michael Geier waived his right to a jury trial Friday in Knox County Circuit Court. He's charged with animal cruelty, endangering the health of a child and violation of animal owner's duties.
28-year-old Rebecca Johnson-Geier, Michael Geier's wife, faces similar misdemeanor charges and previously waived her right to jury trial.
Both Michael Geier and Rebecca Johnson-Geier are scheduled to stand trial March 19th on counts related to the discovery by Abingdon police of at least 12 dead dogs and cats in the family's home on West Monmouth Street in July of 2009.
Police initially were called to respond to a report of a domestic dispute at the residence. Rebecca Johnson-Geier alleged her husband struck her in the mouth then left the house. Police arrested her after they went through the house in an effort to find him and made the gruesome discovery of dead animals, feces and flea infestations throughout. Michael Geier turned himself into Abingdon police less than 48 hours later.
Volunteers from the Abingdon Fire Department went back to the house after the city received permission from the court to go inside to remove any remaining animals.
The couple lived in the home with two children who were later placed into protective custody.
The house at 606 West Monmouth Street in Abingdon where authorities say they discovered several dead animals and deplorable living conditions last July after responding to reported domestic battery
(WGIL News File Photo) |
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| 02 19 10 by Newsroom |
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