Michigan Veterinarian Found Guilty of Stealing Homeless Man’s Dog
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – A Kent County jury delivered a guilty verdict Friday in the case of a veterinarian accused of taking a dog from its owner, a homeless man. dr. Hergenreder faces up to 93 days in jail and a $500 fine after being convicted of larceny, despite arguments centering on the dog’s welfare. Sentencing is scheduled for November 7.
The case sparked debate over the line between legal action and moral obligation, with the prosecution arguing the defendant unlawfully took someone else’s property. Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Nicole Sorci emphasized the simplicity of the case to the jury. “This is a simple case of larceny. The defendant took someone else’s property,” Sorci stated.
Sorci further argued that Hergenreder’s own statements during a phone call to police – expressing worry about getting into trouble – betrayed her guilt. A juror was observed taking notes during the playback of the call. The prosecutor also characterized the veterinarian as having a “martyr complex.”
The alleged victim, identified as Hamilton, testified on the second day of the trial. He described providing for his dog, Vinny, sharing his own food, frequently enough fast food, with the animal and insisting, “I never not fed my dog. My dog got fed more than I did.” He also stated Vinny last saw a veterinarian five years prior for an ear infection. Hamilton appeared visibly distressed while testifying, described as whimpering softly and covering his mouth with his hand.
The defense pointed to Hamilton’s initial absence from the trial. The six-person jury deliberated for just 45 minutes before reaching a verdict.
Following the trial, a juror, speaking anonymously, echoed the prosecution’s argument that Hergenreder had alternative options to ensure the dog’s well-being. The juror expressed sadness that Hamilton was unable to see Vinny during the animal’s final months. “It was sad,” the juror said. “It wasn’t the right thing to do. You don’t take somebody’s dog.”
Hamilton stated he was devastated by Vinny’s disappearance and continues to feel the loss. “I never felt the same,” he said. “He was a part of me.”
