Olympia farm operators avoid jail time in animal abuse case

OLYMPIA, Wash. — Two women convicted of second-degree animal cruelty will avoid jail time but have been banned from owning goats or similar animals for two years.

A Thurston County judge on Tuesday suspended the jail sentence for Carolyn Lattin and Debbie Lattin, who run Lattin's Country Cider Mill and Farm in Olympia. But District Court Judge Sam Meyer ordered them to forfeit 18 goats and pay about $6,700 restitution to an animal rescue group that cared for their goats when the animals were seized.

The Olympian reports that a jury last month convicted each woman of second-degree animal cruelty. In June, 18 goats were seized from the farm because they were suffering from hoof rot.

The Lattins remained defiant when they addressed the court at their sentencing. Debbie Lattin accused prosecutors and witnesses of lying. Carolyn Lattin maintained that they have always cared for their goats. Their attorney said they planned to appeal.

Trending headlines

• At least 15 earthquakes reported near Mount St. Helens
• Man told to stop homeless 'sleep overs' or have house condemned
• Homeowner willing to sell home to city of Seattle to save neighborhood from new development
• Family sues AVIS, says to blame for Renton man's death
• Flu now widespread in Washington state

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE NEWS APP

Associated Press