A Michigan veterinarian was sentenced Monday to 10 days in jail for refusing to return a dog to a homeless man after rescuing the ailing pit bull mix. Amanda Hergenreder’s lawyer had requested 120 hours of community service for her misdemeanor larceny conviction, according to the AP. But Grand Rapids Judge Angela Ross ruled that jail time, along with $1,000 in restitution, was more appropriate.
The case began a year ago when Hergenreder, attending a professional conference in Grand Rapids, spotted the 16-year-old dog tied to a truck outside a coffee shop. She took the dog, later identified as Vinnie (nicknamed Biggby by Hergenreder), to her clinic two hours away, treating a severe urinary tract infection and removing a decayed tooth.
Prosecutors charged Hergenreder after she refused to return the dog to Chris Hamilton, who did not have a permanent home at the time. Hergenreder argued that her ethical obligations as a veterinarian, combined with the dog’s lack of a license, justified her actions. A jury, however, convicted her following a two-day trial.
In court, Hergenreder acknowledged the impact of her actions. “I saw a dog in distress,” she said. “But I failed to see the whole picture. I failed to honor the bond between Vinnie and Mr. Hamilton. I failed to recognize the heartbreak that would follow. I failed to stop, think, and ask questions.”
Vinnie was euthanized in July due to age-related health issues. “We’re disappointed Dr. Hergenreder received a jail sentence, but we take comfort knowing Biggby/Vinnie spent his final months in a warm, safe, loving environment,” said defense attorney Miles Greengard.