Couple Pleads Guilty to Animal Neglect in Jackson County Court

The Jackson County District Attorney’s Office announced today that Michael Lee Hamilton, has pleaded guilty to five counts of Animal Neglect in the First Degree. The court sentenced him to three years of supervised probation, with the possibility of 24 months in the Oregon Department of Corrections if probation is revoked. Additionally, Mr. Hamilton is banned from possessing animals for a period of 15 years.

This development follows a similar guilty plea by Debbie Hamilton on March 15, 2023, who faced identical charges. Debbie Hamilton received a 90-day jail sentence, three years of supervised probation, and a 15-year prohibition from owning any animals.

The charges stem from an alarming incident reported on October 19, 2022, when Jackson County Animal Control responded to complaints of severe neglect and deceased animals at the Hamiltons’ residence. The couple admitted ownership of all animals, including the deceased ones. Shockingly, the animals, comprising 12 dogs (two deceased), nine parrots, and two cats, were found in deplorable conditions. Many dogs suffered from mange, malnourishment, untreated injuries, and infections.

All animals were surrendered to the Humane Society for immediate rehabilitation. The severity of the neglect prompted Deputy District Attorney Sara Shaw to emphasize the importance of accountability during Mr. Hamilton’s sentencing. DDA Shaw highlighted the gravity of the situation, underscoring that the court’s sentence acts as a zero-tolerance policy. If probation is violated, Mr. Hamilton faces imprisonment.

Both Michael and Debbie Hamilton were present during the plea.

This prosecution was handled by Deputy District Attorney Sara Shaw.