In a tragic incident emerging from Southern Colorado, Jessica Hoff, 47, has been detained following the death of her mother, whose dogs reportedly attacked under her care. The Pueblo County Sheriff's Office, as 9NEWS reported, responded to a call on Feb. 3 to find 76-year-old LaVonne Hoff unresponsive with several dogs running loose in the residence. It was determined by autopsy that the elder Hoff, a dementia patient requiring 24-hour care, succumbed to injuries sustained from the attack.
Hoff is now facing charges of criminal negligence resulting in the death of an at-risk adult and 54 counts of aggravated cruelty to animals. When surveying the property, deputies discovered about two dozen additional dogs and seven birds in cages, many of which were in poor health, according to CBS News Colorado. Jessica Hoff had departed to run errands in Pueblo while her mother remained in the house with the dogs, during which time the fatal incident is believed to have occurred.
Authorities ordered a search and seized all the animals from Jessica Hoff's residence and another property she owned. Officials reported that the animals' living conditions were "unsanitary" and that they had various health issues. Cooperation between the Sheriff's Office and Animal Law Enforcement led to the removal of the animals.
Jessica Hoff's bond was $50,000, and she was held at the Pueblo County Jail. She is scheduled to return to court soon, with representation from the Public Defender's Office.
