Times Observer file photo The photo is of one of the dogs rescued by Paws Along the River during an abuse investigation in November 2019. The incident resulted in a $42,000 claim, which Humane Society officials do not believe will be repaid in full.
The idea behind reparations in criminal cases is good.
There is a restorative element to perfecting the victim or entity rather than simply being punitive in the terms of the sentence.
But if the victim is a non-profit organization with ongoing costs and expenses, and if there are questions about the defendant’s ability to pay, the organization could remain in custody for years. .
This is the case of Pose along the River Humane Society after being sentenced in two animal cruelty cases.
A recent case of a dead and severely malnourished puppy (still waiting for a new home) was found in a basement on Prospect Street, resulting in over $6,000 in compensation.
Karen Kolos, Executive Director of Paws, told the Times Observer: “Just because a court has awarded a ruling does not mean that Paws will receive the money in one lump sum.”
Funds are typically paid in installments, Kolos said.
“It depends on what the court sets.” she said. “Most are $50 to $100 a month. Paying back $6,000 can take up to 60 months or five years, but only if you pay $100 a month.”
Koros said the funds donated to the organization were used to cover veterinary bills. ‘It won’t happen for years’
Also, if your payments are inconsistent, your term can be even longer.
In a lawsuit involving $42,000 in damages, Kolos said Paws Along The River had $20 in the first and $50 in the second.
“We will never see his money” she said. “While it is important for the public to know that we do not receive this money, we must use it to pay the bills for all animals in need of care. “
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