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Farm Neglect: Man Gets Probation for Abused Animals
5 Sep
Summary
- Seventy-five-year-old man sentenced to five years probation for animal neglect.
- Ten horses and twelve cows found in extremely poor health.
- All neglected animals have now found new, appropriate homes.
A 75-year-old man from Saegertown, identified as Dwight Williams, has been sentenced to five years of probation for six counts of animal neglect. The sentence, handed down on Friday, September 5, 2026, exceeded state sentencing guidelines for aggravated circumstances. Williams was found to have neglected ten horses and twelve cows on his farm, discovered in June 2025 by Pennsylvania State Police.
The animals were in dire straits, suffering from extreme underweight, bacterial skin infections, pneumonia, and severely overgrown hooves, some with white line disease. They also lacked adequate shelter. Williams was initially hesitant to surrender the animals, stating they needed "more TLC."
During the sentencing, the court heard that new homes have been found for all the animals. The judge acknowledged letters attesting to Williams' good character and lack of prior record, stating there was no evidence of intent to harm. However, the sentence prohibits him from owning or caring for farm animals during his probation.
Williams pleaded no contest to the charges, meaning he did not admit guilt but accepted the consequences. He was also ordered to pay court costs and a $175 fine. The judge cited the number of animals and the duration of neglect as reasons for exceeding standard probation recommendations.
