ST. CATHARINES, Ontario, June 01, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ontario SPCA Inspectors with the Lincoln County Humane Society have charged a St. Catharines veterinarian with 16 counts of animal cruelty under the Criminal Code of Canada relating to alleged animal abuse that allegedly occurred in 2013.
A criminal investigation was launched on September 14, 2016 by the Lincoln County Humane Society after allegations of animal cruelty against Dr. Mahavir Rekhi were reported to the Society.
Rekhi has been charged with 16 counts of animal cruelty under the Criminal Code of Canada:
• 8 indictable counts of causing unnecessary pain or suffering to an animal • 8 indictable counts of failing to provide suitable and adequate care for an animal
“A great deal of information was brought forth during this investigation,” says Regional Inspector Carol VanderHeide, Ontario SPCA. “The investigations team thoroughly examined all relevant evidence, which allowed us to proceed with 16 charges against the accused.”
Rekhi is scheduled to appear in a St. Catharines court room on July 14, 2017.
The Lincoln County Humane Society is a charitable not-for-profit organization dedicated to the humane treatment of all animals; to alleviate their suffering and neglect, support the human-animal bond and foster an environment in which people respect all living creatures. We will provide safe refuge and compassionate care for animals.
The Lincoln County Humane Society pursues workable solutions to the most urgent animal welfare issues of the community, which are animal overpopulation and homelessness. These solutions will emphasize the mutual benefits of bringing pets and people together. The Society will provide rescue and control as a lifeline to animals in need, as a necessary service to the community.
The Lincoln County Humane Society will encourage and provide for pet adoption, animal assisted therapy, pet care education, spay and neuter program and investigations of cruelty and neglect.
As a not-for-profit organization, the Lincoln County Humane Society shall operate these programs with integrity, in a financially responsible manner that secures a financially viable future for this organization with a strong commitment to fundraising and membership development.
Ontario SPCA and Humane Society:
Protecting animals since 1873, Ontario SPCA is Ontario's Animal Welfare organization. A registered charity comprised of over 50 Communities .
Since 1919, when Ontario's first Animal Welfare legislation was proclaimed, the Ontario SPCA, with the help of its Communities , has been entrusted to maintain and enforce Animal Welfare legislation. The Act provides Ontario SPCA Agents and Inspectors with police powers to do so.
Ontario SPCA provides leadership in animal welfare innovations including introducing high-volume spay/neuter services to Ontario and opening the Provincial Education and Animal Centre .
OntarioSPCA.ca
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Charitable Business Number 88969 1044 RR0002
MEDIA CONTACT Melissa Kosowan Ontario SPCA 289-383-5968
