Monessen couple charged after dogs found starved and suffering from infections
Monessen, PA – A Westmoreland County couple is facing felony charges after two severely malnourished dogs were seized from a home on Chestnut Street, where police say the animals had no access to food or water and were suffering from untreated medical conditions.
Billy Dupree and Tonia Lawson have been charged with aggravated animal cruelty and neglect of animals following an investigation that began in late August. According to Monessen Police, officers responded to a tip about the dogs’ welfare and found the animals visibly emaciated, with ribs and spines protruding through their skin. Officers noted that food and water bowls at the home were bone dry and showed no signs of recent use.
Despite the condition of the dogs, Dupree and Lawson reportedly told officers the animals were not malnourished and had been properly cared for. Police executed a search warrant and removed the dogs from the property the same day.
Veterinary records later confirmed that both dogs had been suffering from starvation and showed rapid improvement after being rescued, gaining seven to eight pounds each in a short period. The animals were also found to have chronic ear infections and inflamed paws, conditions that required medical attention and were left untreated, according to the report.
Arrest warrants for Dupree and Lawson were issued following the release of the veterinary findings in September. As of this week, both individuals face criminal charges related to the alleged mistreatment.
The case remains active, and both defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
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Key Points
- Two dogs were seized from a Monessen home after being found visibly starved and suffering from untreated infections
- Billy Dupree and Tonia Lawson face charges of aggravated animal cruelty and neglect
- Veterinary reports showed rapid weight gain and signs of prior suffering after the animals were rescued