An animal rescue group in western Loudoun County, Virginia, is facing charges of animal cruelty after a monthslong investigation resulted in the seizure of over 100 animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, and parakeets. The leaders of the Luck of the Irish Animal Rescue, Nicole Metz and Kimberly Hall, were arrested and charged following reports of filthy living conditions and malnourished animals. Three members of the group, including Hall’s son, pleaded guilty to misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty in a plea agreement that dismissed other charges. The statutory maximum penalty in Virginia for each count is one year in jail. Previous plea agreements had been rejected by judges who recused themselves, indicating a need for more evidence. The case is scheduled to be heard by Judge James Plowman on October 24 for sentencing. The animal rescue group now faces legal consequences for the mistreatment of the animals in their care, and the well-being of the seized animals is being monitored closely by authorities.
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