SHERRARD, Ill. – A Sherrard woman is set to appear in Mercer County Circuit Court for a final pre-trial conference on Tuesday for multiple animal cruelty charges. 60-year-old Karen Plambeck is facing twelve animal cruelty charges after 198 dogs were rescued from her property in August of 2022. Additionally, she is charged with a felony of unlawful communication with a witness in connection with the animal cruelty case.
All 198 dogs were forfeited to the care of Mercer County Animal Control following the investigation. Over $170,000 worth of veterinary and boarding costs were introduced as evidence during a court hearing in September of 2022. Plambeck has posted bond in both cases and pleaded not guilty to all charges.
A five-day jury trial is set for Feb. 26 through March 1 to decide the outcome of the case against Plambeck. The case has garnered significant attention in the community, with many concerned about the welfare of the animals rescued from her property.
It is unclear what led to the large number of animals on her property and what her defense strategy will be during the trial. However, animal welfare advocates and residents are eager to see justice served for the animals affected by this case.
As the trial date approaches, the community awaits the decision that will determine the fate of the animals and the woman accused of animal cruelty. The outcome of the trial will have lasting implications for animal welfare and the enforcement of animal cruelty laws in the region.
Karen Plambeck’s trial for multiple animal cruelty charges, including the rescue of 198 dogs from her property in Sherrard, Illinois, is set for a five-day jury trial from Feb. 26 through March 1. All 198 dogs were forfeited to the care of Mercer County Animal Control, with over $170,000 worth of veterinary and boarding costs as evidence. Plambeck has posted bond and pleaded not guilty to all charges, and the community is eager to see justice served for the animals involved.