Guilty Plea Preempts Start of Animal Abuse Trial

With his trial set to begin yesterday morning, 39-year-old John Elmer of Sanford, New York entered a guilty plea on three animal abuse charges. Elmer has forfeited ownership of the seized animals and must divest himself of all remaining animals. He will also be required to register on the Broome County Animal Abuser Registry and consent to search by District Attorney’s Office investigators to ensure compliance. Upwards of $10,000 was spent on the care and recovery of the animals. Sentencing is scheduled for December 7th.