An Ashland man entered a not guilty plea in Ashland County Common Pleas Court on Wednesday to charges of animal cruelty and unlawful possession of a dangerous firearm. The charges stem from an incident where an injured cat was found in a taped-shut litter box thrown into a dumpster. The man, identified as Christopher Ferrell, 49, was located at his residence on 254 1/2 W. Main St., Ashland, after the discovery of the injured cat.
Although the cat was found alive, it sustained severe injuries and had to be euthanized. According to a news release from the office of Ashland County Prosecutor Christopher Tunnell, Ferrell is also accused of possessing a sawed-off shotgun and a pellet rifle, which were found at his property. Both items are illegal under Ohio law.
The injured cat was discovered by Ashland Police officers after being alerted by a concerned citizen. The officers called in The Cat House Feline Sanctuary and Lisa Schwan of the Spring Meadow Veterinary Clinic for emergency medical treatment. Schwan determined the cat had suffered blunt force trauma and a head wound, believed to be caused by a pellet gun.
At his court appearance, a bond of $25,000 was previously set for Ferrell, with the condition that he is not allowed to have possession of animals or weapons, including air rifles, if the bond is posted.
The case’s next hearing is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. on Jan. 19, according to court records. Ashland County Prosecutor Christopher Tunnell thanked The Cat House Feline Sanctuary, Lisa Schwan, and law enforcement for their cooperation in the investigation. The charges against Ferrell are fifth-degree felonies, and he pleaded not guilty to all counts presented.