BulletinMinistry of the Solicitor GeneralPublished: July 10, 2026

St. Thomas resident convicted for leaving animal in distress

A court found Margaretha Kroecker guilty on May 13, 2026; she was fined and banned from animal ownership for 10 years, with two guinea pigs exempted.

Published

July 10, 2026

Source

Ministry of the Solicitor General

Release type

Bulletin

External ID

1007725

Summary

What happened

Date and place: May 13, 2026, Ontario Court of Justice in St. Thomas.
Person convicted: Margaretha Kroecker, guilty of permitting an animal to be in distress (section 15(2) of the PAWS Act).

Penalty

Fine: $500.
Ownership ban: Prohibited from owning, having custody, care, or control of animals for 10 years.
Exception: Two guinea pigs living in the residence are allowed to remain.

Why this matters

The conviction was under the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act (PAWS Act), effective Jan 1, 2020.
Provincial figures (as of May 2026): more than 18,700 distress orders issued, over 2,500 charges laid, and over 15,700 animals removed.

If you suspect animal distress or abuse, call 1-833-9-ANIMAL (264625).