Divorce May Have Been The Reason For A Dog Starving To Death

FRANKLIN, Ind.–A dog who died of starvation may have been the victim of two people who were getting a divorce. Michael and Amanda Setser of Greenwood and Franklin, respectively, have both been charged with animal cruelty, a misdemeanor, said the Johnson County deputy prosecutor.

“Chuck” died in January when Amanda, 28, left the trailer and the dog when she separated from Michael, 31. A complaint said Amanda and Michael had a phone conversation ten days later, when she claims he told her he not only wanted to hurt her, but everything she loved.

A recording was made of the phone call, said the complaint.

Michael told her Chuck died in his lap. When he was questioned, he denied ever having a dog in the trailer.

Police also believe Amanda had a chance to pick up Chuck and some cats from the trailer, but didn’t. Chuck went unfed from Jan. 7 to at least Jan. 17.

“In my 19 years of experience as a prosecutor I have prosecuted my fair share of animal cruelty cases, and it never gets easier. These domesticated animals are helpless and completely dependent on their owners to care for them. Crimes like these could easily be avoided if people would just show a little compassion and take their animals to the Johnson County Animal Shelter,” said Chief Deputy Prosecutor Joe Villanueva.

Both Setsers could get a year in jail and a $5,000 fine.