WEST CHESTER, PA — A joint effort by the Brandywine Valley SPCA (BVSPCA), the South Coatesville Police Department, and a good Samaritan has led to the identification and charging of a suspect, 33-year-old Curtis T. Bacon, in a severe case of dog abuse.
The ordeal began when a concerned tipster alerted the authorities to a home in South Coatesville where a dog’s cries of pain could be heard. Police officers who responded to the call discovered Ava, a severely emaciated dog with multiple visible wounds, including a traumatically amputated back leg. Ava was rushed to VRC Specialty Hospital in Malvern for emergency treatment.
Adam Lamb, BVSPCA’s Chief Executive Officer, expressed his shock and commitment to Ava’s recovery, stating, “It’s sickening to think about the trauma she’s endured and we are committed to providing her with the medical attention and care she needs to heal both physically and emotionally.”
The suspect now faces serious legal consequences, including four felony counts of aggravated cruelty charges and four misdemeanor counts of cruelty and neglect charges.
Ava’s condition remains critical as she battles multiple injuries, including a severely damaged eye, older fractures in her leg and ribs, lung damage, and multiple broken teeth. The dog will require further surgical intervention to amputate her maimed leg.
Despite her traumatic experience, Ava has shown remarkable resilience. Sarah Fatula, VMD, Medical Director for VRC Specialty Hospital, noted, “Despite this, Ava has been sweet and is eating well for us here.”
As Ava begins her long journey to recovery, the BVSPCA is seeking a medical foster who can provide the necessary care. The organization continues to stand as a beacon of hope for abused and neglected animals in Chester and Delaware Counties, reminding the community that resources are always available.
The BVSPCA expressed gratitude to the South Coatesville Police Department and the team at VRC Specialty Hospital for their quick action and dedication to Ava’s care.
The cost of Ava’s medical needs continues to escalate, but the BVSPCA is committed to ensuring she receives the best possible care. The organization welcomes donations to support Ava’s recovery and help provide her with a safe place to heal both physically and emotionally.
On Dec. 22, Bacon appeared before District Judge Gregory Hines for arraignment. A bail of $150,000 cash was set. It’s important to note that information, a criminal complaint, or an arrest does not automatically imply guilt. A suspect, arrestee, or defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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