HAMILTON-- A woman accused of starving her dog to death, appeared in front of a judge today, while animal lovers protested outside. Elizabeth Lewis is accused of deliberately starving and neglecting her dog Bruiser to the point where vets had no choice but to put the dog down. This is the second time Lewis is facing the same crime, for the same dog. In the first case, Lewis was found not guilty and Bruiser was nursed back to health at the humane society, and returned to her custody. This week, Bruiser was found outside Lewis' apartment. The dog warden ordered to have the dog euthanized to end his suffering. This is the worst I've seen and I've been doing animal control for 15 years. Said Deputy Tonya Henson, from the Butler County Dog Warden's Office. Wednesday, outside the courtroom, dozens of protesters with signs, braved the snow and cold, calling for tougher punishment for animal cruelty. This is terrible. I can go to the bmv and write them a bad check and go to jail for longer than this horrific crime that was committed against this innocent animal. It took months for him to starve to death. It's unconscionable that the laws are so weak in this state. Lisa Holbrook said. Lewis was released on own recognizance, and the judge told Lewis that she cannot own a pet until this case runs its course. She had to leave court with police escort, for her own safety. Lewis could face 180 days in jail and $1000 fine. She is scheduled to be back in court March 13.
