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Family's pet illegally euthanized

A judge recently ruled that Ricki, a Lab mix, was illegally put down at a Georgia animal shelter.

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — Animal advocates flooded the courtroom Tuesday after the director of the Gwinnett County Animal Shelter, Curt Farrell, told the court he ordered two employees to euthanize a dog that the court ordered be spared.

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The judge ruled that the animal shelter director violated court orders to protect “Ricki” the Lab mix, not kill it.

The judge has issued a $500 fine be paid to the family who unexpectedly lost their pet.

The plaintiff’s attorney Ed Furr is completely satisfied with the ruling.

“I think we just needed to send a message that an order is an order and that it's not a suggestion sheet,” said Furr.

“Ricki” the pup first came to the shelter in late December following the surrendering of the dog from its owner.

The owner retrieved the canine a month later, but it bit the owner’s daughter which is why the dog was at the shelter once again and under temporary protection. During that time, the dog was euthanized.

“To know the dog was euthanized and killed. Why? Why? In my opinion he didn't need to. Why not let the dog eat and sleep and be there for another week or two,” said private investigator Robin Martinelli.