Newbury Park Man Convicted In Theft And Death Of Shelter Dog Sentenced

Wednesday December 13, 2023

(Top photo courtesy Paw Works)

    Updated--The Ventura County man convicted in connection with the theft and death of a dog from the "Paw Works" animal rescue shelter has been sentenced.

    Wednesday, 34-year-old Miles Berry of Newbury Park was sentenced to six months in jail and two years formal probation.

     That probation includes never ever owning an animal and never having contact with any animal unless under supervision.

     Berry must also never abuse, annoy, or harass an animal.

     He must undergo what's called "Animal Rehabilitation Counseling" and also psychological counseling.

     The authorities say on June 9, 2022, Berry broke into "Paw Works" in Camarillo and stole a 2-year-old German Shepard known as "Pretty Girl".

    Prosecutors say surveillance video showed Berry hitting the dog as she resisted being taken from her individual kennel.      

     The dog was found gravely injured hours later running  in traffic lanes the 101 Freeway at Wendy Drive and had to be euthanized.

     They say that Berry was ultimately identified as the suspect with the help of the security video.

     In November he pleaded guilty to two felonies, commercial burglary and animal cruelty and he admitted two special allegations of a crime that involved great violence.

     Berry will not have to start serving his jail sentence until December 28th.