Decision in animal seizure case expected by summer

Sunday, April 5, 2009

© AgMedia Inc.

by BETTER FARMING STAFF

A decision is expected by the summer in the case of an Elgin County father and son sued for the cost of caring for animals the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals seized in 2006.

The trial of Steve and John Straub, heard by Ontario Superior Court Justice William Jenkins, began March 30 in St. Thomas and wrapped up the next day. It was expected to last a week.

The Society’s statement of claim ascribes a cost of $168,746.86 to the seizing and caring of 87 animals found on the Straub property. 

The Straubs’ statement of defense described the Society’s claim as “excessive, remote and not recoverable at law.”

The statement asked for a dismissal, citing the seizure as “unnecessary and not carried out in accordance with the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.” 

Contacted by telephone today, Steve Straub said he could not comment on the trial until he received the ruling. BF