BUTTE, Mont. – A Butte judge has issued a bench warrant without bond for a woman facing eight felony animal cruelty charges, after she failed to appear at her arraignment. Veronica Lasell, who was previously released on bond, missed her second arraignment after being charged with eight felony counts of cruelty to animals and a misdemeanor count for failure to provide food and water.
In January 2022, Lasell allegedly left four dogs and numerous cats at a Butte home without food or water, leading to the euthanization of the dogs due to previous attacks on people. The situation was so dire that law enforcement personnel had to wear protective suits during a search warrant due to the filth in the home. The prosecutor also stated that Lasell had missed her previous arraignment, and her attorney had no contact with her.
The confusion continued during Wednesday’s hearing, as Lasell’s attorney had mistakenly called into the court session for a different case. The judge also expressed surprise at the age of the case, stating that he did not realize it was that old. The deputy county attorney confirmed that this was the second time Lasell failed to appear for her hearing. Due to these repeated absences, a bench warrant without bond has been issued, and Lasell will remain in custody until the next hearing or until an agreement is reached to ensure her appearance.
At this point, Lasell faces serious legal consequences if found guilty of animal cruelty. The severity of the charges and the repeated non-appearance in court make this case a matter of public concern. The judge’s decision to issue a bench warrant without bond underscores the importance of ensuring that the accused appear for their hearings and face the charges against them.
Overall, the case highlights the need for animal welfare and responsible pet ownership. The situation that occurred in this Butte home serves as a reminder of the duty to care for animals and the legal implications of failing to do so. Lasell’s case will proceed through the judicial system, with the next hearing crucial to the resolution of this matter.