The purpose of this petition is to show the King and Queen General Discrict Court that we the community support the hard work that the sheriffs office and regional animal shelter have put in to the rehabilitation of these dogs. We also want to ensure the dogs do not get released back to the “owners” and the “owners” are charged to the highest extent . The hearing is September 20, 2019 giving us 11 days to gather as many signatures as possible. King William Reigonal Animal Shelter has a link to general donations on their website. They have helped and are continuing to help 32 malnourished Danes rescued from the disgusting conditions. The press release from King and Queen Sherrifs Office is below.

“On Tuesday, August 27, 2019, the King and Queen County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at 2668 Owens Mill Road in St. Stephens Church, VA. The search warrant successfully allowed the Sheriff’s Deputies to rescue 32 Great Dane dogs housed at the residence. The condition of the 20 adult dogs and 12 puppies rescued ranged from poor to near death. Arrested on Felony Animal Cruelty charges were Richard Awlasewicz and Candice Wheat of the same address.

Five of the dogs were discovered barricaded inside a small, dilapidated camper. Both the camper and the dogs were covered in feces and urine. There was no food or water in the camper. The temperature inside the camper was extreme and without ventilation. The remainder of the dogs were inside the residence with very little food and no water. The conditions within the house were such that the state Health Department and County Zoning Office were contacted. Both agencies responded to the address there were several health, safety and zoning issues.

The dogs are being held at the King William Regional Animal Shelter. A hearing to determine if they will be returned to the owners is scheduled for September 20, 2019 in the King and Queen General District Courthouse. On September 6, 2019 at Awlasewicz’s arraignment, Awlasewicz, the owner of 101danes made unsubstantiated claims that two of the dogs seized are service dogs for Awlasewicz and Wheat. Awlasewicz’s attorney asked that the two dogs be returned immediately. The Judge declined to entertain Awlasewicz’s attorneys request and the hearing has been continued until September 20, 2019.

Thanks to the immediate veterinary care and the outstanding attention and care the dogs are receiving from the staff at the King William Regional Animal Shelter, it is apparent that most of the dogs’ conditions are improving daily.

Press Release
Chief Deputy W.R. Balderson
wrbalderson@kqso.net
804-785-5490”