Colorado – A Colorado woman was arrested last week following the death of her parent, who was fatally attacked by animaIs in their home. The woman faces charges of criminal negligence resulting in the death of an at-risk adult and more than four dozen counts of aggravated crueIty to animaIs. The 47-year-old woman, Jesica, has been arrested following the death of her mother, LaVone, who was fatally mauIed by pets under Jesica’s care.
On February 3, 2025, deputies responded to a distress call at the family’s residence. Upon arrival, they discovered the 76-year-old victim unresponsive, with numerous pets roaming freely inside the home. The elderly victim, who suffered from dementia and required constant supervision, was pronounced dead at the scene due to injuries sustained from a dog attack.
The investigation revealed that the victim’s daughter had left her mother unattended while she ran errands. During this time, the victim was attacked by several animaIs in the household. Authorities found 31 d0gs and seven birds within the residence, many exhibiting signs of neglect and living in unsanitary conditions.
Further inquiries led deputies to a second property owned by Jesica, where an additional 54 d0gs and seven birds were discovered, also living in poor conditions.
Jessica was taken into custody on March 21 and is currently held at the county jail on a $50,000 bond. She is scheduled to appear in court on March 27.
In Colorado, criminal negligence resulting in the death of an at-risk adult is a Class 4 felony, carrying potential penalties of two to six years in prison and fines ranging from $2,000 to $500,000. Aggravated cruelty to animals involves knowingly torturing, needlessly mutilating, or needlessly killing an animal, and is considered a serious offense under Colorado law.
This incident underscores the critical responsibilities of caregivers, especially when overseeing vulnerable individuals and numerous animals. Proper supervision and humane treatment are essential to prevent such devastating outcomes.