September 30, 2010
Champ’s Owner Charged with Felony Animal Cruelty
DeFuniak Springs, FL –
Walton County Sheriff Michael A. Adkinson Jr. announces the arrest of the owner of the miniature horse ‘Champ” on the charge of violating Florida Statutes 828.12 (2) relating to Cruelty to Animals. At approximately 7:30pm this evening, deputies arrested Nicholas William Sconiers, W/M, 28 years of age, without incident at his home in Defuniak Springs.
Sconiers will be held without bond in the Walton County jail until first appearance with the court. The arrest came as a result of additional investigative measures taken over the last two weeks by authorities. Investigators from the Walton County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services have continued to investigate and document the circustmstances that led to the serious health condition of Champ.
Late this afternoon, the Office of the State Attorney for the First Judicial Circuit of Florida direct filed the felony charge based on the new case presentation, which included additional examination from a second licensed veterinarian and an animal heath rating system grade from the Department of Agriculture.
If convicted of the animal abuse charge, Sconiers could receive up to a five (5) year sentence to state prison. Champ has been under the care and treatment of the Alaqua Animal Refuge in Freeport and is recovering well.
For video of Champ please watch ALAQUA TV at noon weekdays on Channel 8 30a Television or online at
http://30atelevision.com/play.php?vid=1422
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