Animal cruelty charge results in probation

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By Carmen Ensinger

The man charged with shooting two dogs, killing one and severely injuring the other, pled guilty to the charge and received probation in Greene County Circuit Court.
Michael J. VanGiesen, 25, of Murrayville pled guilty to one charge of misdemeanor animal cruelty, a Class A misdemeanor, on Oct. 27. Two charges of felony aggravated cruelty to animals, Class 4 felonies, were dismissed per the plea agreement.
VanGiesen was sentenced to two years of probation, ordered to pay a fine to the county, along with restitution to the owners of the dogs and ordered to serve 100 hours of community service.
According to court documents, VanGiesen was arrested and booked into Greene County Jail on June 16 after he shot and killed a short-haired German pointer in March as well as shooting a beagle which resulted in serious injuries to the dog.
A Class A misdemeanor in Illinois is punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500. Other possible sentences include up to two years of court supervision, conditional discharge or probation.
A Class 4 Felony in Illinois is the least serious felony with potential penalties of up to 1 to 3 years in the Department of Corrections or probation, which can last up to 30 months.