Walla Walla County dismisses animal cruelty cases, WA AG reviewing evidence

COLLEGE PLACE – The Walla Walla County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office has dismissed cases against Benjamin William Tucker Read, 22, and Austen Dean Devaney, 20, both of College Place, who were arrested in May for first-degree animal cruelty.

Walla Walla County Deputy Prosecutor Tyler Hensley stated that the cases were dismissed without prejudice in the interest of justice, stating “The State would not be able to prove each element of the charges beyond a reasonable doubt to a jury.”

The Washington State Office of the Attorney General now has all of the evidence and will decide on any charges.

The arrests followed a May 18 police welfare check of two barking dogs at an apartment on the 200 block of College Avenue, which revealed a very poor living situation, including waste, garbage, and multiple deceased animals, suggesting an illegal taxidermy operation.

College Place Police Chief Troy Tomaras said he’s disappointed with the prosecutor’s office decision.

“Our officers did a thorough job in their investigation,” Tomaras said. “There was a similar case in Spokane with these suspects. I’m hopeful the state continues their investigation into the incident.”

Meanwhile, Elkhorn Media Group has learned that Washington State Fish and Wildlife Police continue to pursue this case in consultation with the Washington State Office of the Attorney General.

Photo of apartment via College Place Police Department

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Elkhorn Media Group