Medford, Oregon– The Jackson County District Attorneys Office has announced that James Hart was sentenced yesterday by on two counts of Sexual Assault of an Animal. Hart, who pleaded guilty on January 18, 2024, faced the consequences of his actions following a distressing revelation.
The charges stemmed from a report filed on February 21, 2021, alleging that Hart possessed videos on his phone depicting acts of sexual abuse against his dog, Milo, a shepherd mix.
Medford Police Department Detective Elizabeth Hull took charge of the investigation, uncovering damning evidence against Hart. Upon confrontation, Hart admitted to the acts.
Two appalling videos were discovered on Hart’s phone, one dated August 19, 2018, depicting the dog performing oral sex on Hart, and another from November 25, 2018, showing Hart performing oral sex on the dog.
At the sentencing held this morning, the State pushed for the maximum penalty, urging the court to impose 48 months at the Oregon Department of Corrections, followed by two years of post-prison supervision, and a prohibition on animal possession for 15 years under ORS 167.332. In contrast, Hart’s Defense Attorney sought a Downward Departure, advocating for supervised probation.
Presiding over the case, Judge Kelly Ravassipour delivered the sentence, ordering Hart to serve 38 months at the Department of Corrections, with an additional two years of post-prison supervision. Furthermore, Hart is prohibited from possessing animals for the next 15 years, as per ORS 167.332.
Deputy District Attorney Sara Shaw spearheaded the prosecution, ensuring justice was served in a case.
The sentencing of James Hart serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the laws protecting animals from cruelty and abuse, and underscores the commitment of law enforcement and the judicial system in ensuring accountability for such egregious acts.
Source: JCDA
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