Case Against Grafton Couple Appears To Be Headed For Trial
By Doug La Rocque
Michael and Erica Costello of Old Road were back in Grafton Town Court recently before Justice Rebecca Snyder in the ongoing case of animal abuse that allegedly led to the death of one horse. The Costellos’ attorney, David Gruenberg, had questions surrounding the validity of the search warrant executed on the Costellos property in early September. [private]Rensselaer County Sheriff’s Deputies removed several animals at that time. Two horses had previously been purchased and rescued. One had to be put down because of poor health. Attorney Gruenberg indicated he would need another month to complete his motions, and indicated to Justice Snyder that he believes the case will go to trial.
While the horses now belong to someone else, three smaller animals are being housed at the Mohawk-Hudson Humane Society, and the bill to the Town of Grafton continues to mount. Grafton Town Supervisor Ingrid Gundrum said that so far, more than $10,000 in vouchers have been presented to the Town. Until there is a court decision or the Costellos voluntarily give up their rights to these animals, they must be kept in special circumstances at the Humane Society and cannot be adopted out. Supervisor Gundrum also said the Town is looking into the possibility of adopting a local law that allows municipalities to seek legal restitution. She said, “we must move forward on this.”
Justice Snyder set the next court date for February 9 at 7 pm. The Costellos face seven counts each of failing to provide sustenance and one count each of creating a condition that endangers others. This charge stems from the allegation that they left the body of the dead horse near the roadway for several days. If convicted, they could face a $500 fine on each count and up to three months in jail.[/private]