An East Price Hill man accused of strangling his elderly dog is set to be arraigned on Friday, June 13, according to Hamilton County Prosecutor Connie Pillich.
Richard Orth, 59, brought his dog, Tinkerbell, to an animal hospital in Green Township on May 23. Prosecutors say a veterinarian determined the dog needed to be euthanized and quoted Orth a price of $500.
When staff left the room to prepare the medication, Orth could be heard on audio from the room saying, “Go be with God. I won’t let you suffer. $500 is highway robbery,” according to a news release from Pillich’s office.
Deputy Dog Warden and State Humane Enforcement Agent Aarron Harrison stated in court documents that Orth then “strangled his … dog, causing serious injuries (to the neck and throat) that resulted in the immediate need for vet staff to euthanize the animal.”
Orth was indicted on Monday, June 2, on a charge of cruel treatment of companion animals, officials said. He faces up to one year in prison.
Jeff Cutcher, Orth’s attorney, did not respond to messages seeking comment.
“There’s no excuse for what happened here,” Pillich said in a statement. “Our office is committed to holding those accountable who harm animals.”
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