SURRY COUNTY, Va. (WTVR) -- The owner of the Dogs Deserve Better kennel, located on the property once owned by Michael Vick, will not face animal abuse charges.
Judge Robert Edwards nolle prossed animal cruelty charges against Tammy Thayne Tuesday after the prosecution’s key witness from South Carolina was unable to appear at the hearing.
However, the charges could be filed again within one year of the date of the alleged offense.
Dogs Deserve Better representatives held a news conference at the former Vick home after the proceedings.
"This is the result of corruption. There's absolutely no two ways about. The charges are unfounded. They have no evidence and it needs to stop…, " Thayne said. "I mean I deserve better than this. If they can't bring their witnesses, then they're done..."
Thayne told CBS 6 senior reporter Wayne Covil that she would have preferred a not guilty verdict, but said she remains committed to animals. In fact, Thayne said Dogs Deserve Better is in the process of expanding.
Deputies accused Thayne of not providing adequate space and care to her dogs.
Charges were filed last year, after Surry County deputies investigated complaints that at least 10 dogs were not being properly cared for.
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