B.C. resident tried to euthanize one of her cats with fentanyl, others had drugs in their system
A B.C. woman was found guilty by the law courts in Kelowna of animal cruelty charges for trying to administer a poisonous or injurious drug or substance to a cat.
The BC SPCA released some details about the case against Jayme-Jo Crystal Brooks, who pleaded guilty to the charges.
This dates back to an investigation conducted by the BC SPCA in December 2024, after the resident tried to euthanize her cat by injecting it with fentanyl.
“A concerned veterinarian called the BC SPCA Animal Helpline to report the cat was in critical distress after humanely euthanizing her. A necropsy ordered by the BC SPCA revealed fentanyl exposure had occurred,” BC SPCA said.
The BC SPCA executed a search warrant, seizing two other cats that were in Brooks’ care.
The investigation uncovered more dark revelations.
Both cats had cocaine, amphetamines, and methamphetamine in their systems.
While one of the cats was fortunately adopted into a loving home, the other had severe underlying health concerns and was humanely euthanized as recommended by vets.
“The BC SPCA recommended animal cruelty charges to Crown Counsel. Brooks’ cruelty conviction is considered victorious as it sets a precedent against at-home euthanasia practices that inflict unnecessary harm,” BC SPCA said.
Jamie Wiltse, the regional manager for animal protection services, called it a huge victory for animal welfare in Canada, as the case wasn’t charged at the provincial level under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, but instead, it was prosecuted under the Criminal Code of Canada.
“A criminal code conviction sends a stronger message and reflects a higher level of societal condemnation and accountability, and are typically reserved for the most serious cases. Unlike a provincial offence conviction, a conviction under the criminal code carries the consequence of a criminal record,” Wiltse said.
In the aftermath, Brooks is on the receiving end of a five-year prohibition from owning, having the custody or control of or residing in the same premises as an animal or bird.
“She is also on a probation order for a 12-month term with several conditions in place, including the need to engage in counselling or education programs as directed by a probation officer and a requirement to complete 30 hours of community service work,” the BC SPCA added.