Naperville Woman Arrested on Felony Animal Cruelty Charges
illi News/10268445

Trending...
~ Naperville Police have arrested a woman on multiple felony counts of aggravated animal cruelty following an investigation that began with a concerned citizen's report of potential animal abuse. The incident occurred on May 28, 2024, when Christina Helm, a 32-year-old resident of the 100 block of Testa Drive, was taken into custody.

According to the concerned citizen, they had agreed to take care of "Olive," a pit bull mix dog, while Helm was away on a business trip in October 2023. However, upon taking custody of the dog, they noticed that Olive was in an emaciated state and could barely walk. The dog also had open sores on her body. Concerned for Olive's well-being, the citizen immediately contacted Animal Control Officers.

Olive was then rushed to an emergency veterinary hospital where she received treatment for starvation and dehydration. Meanwhile, Naperville Police Detectives and Crime Scene Technicians executed a search warrant at Helm's residence and found evidence of alleged animal abuse.

More on illi News
As a result, a warrant was issued for Helm's arrest on May 23, 2024. She is facing three counts of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals (Class 4 felony) and three counts of Violation of Owner's Duties (Class B misdemeanor). Additionally, Helm is charged with one count of Endangering the Life or Health of a Child (Class A misdemeanor) for allegedly committing aggravated animal cruelty in the presence of a minor.

Helm turned herself in to police on May 28 and was transported to DuPage County Jail. Fortunately, Olive made a full recovery and has since been released to a shelter where she was adopted by a loving family.

The Naperville Police would like to remind the public and media that these charges are merely accusations and Helm is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court. They also urge anyone who suspects animal abuse or neglect to report it immediately to the authorities.

Filed Under: Government, City

Show All News | Report Violation

0 Comments

Latest on illi News