Steven Coxen convicted for allowing animal distress in Simcoe

What happened

• Date and place: May 22, 2026, Ontario Court of Justice in Simcoe.
• Outcome: Steven Coxen was found guilty under the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act (PAWS Act).

Charges and sentence

• Charges: 1 count of permitting an animal to be in distress (s.15(2)) and 2 counts of failing to comply with prescribed standards of care (s.13(1)).
• Sentence: Two years probation, including community service and an animal care course.

Why it matters

• The case shows the PAWS Act is being used in court to address animal distress and care standards.
• Provincial enforcement totals (as of May 2026) reported in the release: more than 18,700 distress orders issued, over 2,500 charges laid under the PAWS Act, and over 15,700 animals removed from distressing situations.

How to report animal distress

• If you believe an animal is in distress or being abused, the release directs people to call 1-833-9-ANIMAL (264625).