A Brazeau County resident is facing multiple charges, including animal cruelty, following an investigation by Alberta SPCA and Drayton Valley RCMP.
On Nov. 15, RCMP officers were called to assist Alberta SPCA Peace Officers during a compliance check on a property. The visit was intended to ensure the property owner was adhering to conditions outlined in a court-issued prohibition order.
During the check, 64-year-old James Allan Kurz was arrested after allegedly obstructing and assaulting a police officer. Authorities discovered that Kurz was in possession of more livestock than permitted under his court order. Additionally, a dog with leg injuries was found on the property.
Kurz has been charged with:
Assault on a Peace Officer
Obstruction/Resisting Arrest (x2)
Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
Cruelty to Animals
Disobeying a Court Order
After being remanded into custody, Kurz was released and is scheduled to appear in court on Jan. 7 at the Alberta Court of Justice in Drayton Valley.
In a cooperative effort with the Alberta SPCA, Kurz voluntarily surrendered 72 dogs from the property. The animals are now in the care of the SPCA.
“We welcome the opportunity to support the Alberta SPCA with their difficult job in protecting animal welfare in this province,” said Cpl. Troy Savinkoff of the Alberta RCMP.
“We are thankful that ultimately the property owner did the right thing in working with the Alberta SPCA in supporting these animals.”
