Joseph Carey
WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — The Marathon County man accused of severe animal abuse and neglect after dead dogs and goats were found on his property in the Town of Day has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Joseph Carey entered the plea to nearly two dozen counts, including eight felonies for mistreatment of animals- causing death. The charges stem from an investigation that began in late April after a report of dead and severely malnourished animals on his property. Carey reportedly told officers that he had recently become depressed and stopped caring for the animals.
Previous reports, including a 2016 story in the Marshfield News-Herald, highlighted the 29-year-old as a renowned sled dog racer. Officers cited that story in the complaint, saying it shows that Carey “had great knowledge of raising, training and breeding animals.”
During his time as a racer, Carey participated in events in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Canada.
If found guilty, Carey faces up to 28 years in prison and $80,000 in fines on the felony counts. He is free on a signature bond with several conditions, including not owning or caring for any animals.
Trial dates have not been set. Carey returns to court for a status conference on June 17th.
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