ROBERT L. HAMMAKER arrested after a dog who was shot dead was found on a Preble County property along with several other animals kept in filth and without food or water

- Ohio, USA -

The Preble County Sheriff's Office arrested 71-year-old ROBERT L. HAMMAKER (pictured).

On November 20, 2025, deputies executed a search warrant at a property in the 2400 block of East Winnerline Road as part of an investigation.

The search led to the discovery of multiple animals living in filthy conditions. The sheriff’s office said the poor animals were lacking food, water, and adequate shelter.

Sadly, deputies also found a deceased dog. A necropsy performed on the furvictim revealed the dog had been shot twice. Court records stated HAMMAKER admitted to killing the dog.

The Preble County Sheriff’s Office said deputies removed eleven calves, three chickens, four cows, a dog, five ducks, ten horses, a pig, four pigeons, four rabbits, four sheep, and four turkeys from the property.

HAMMAKER, the owner of the property, was placed under arrest and charged with one felony count of cruelty to companion animals and fifteen misdemeanor counts of cruelty to animals. HAMMAKER was later released after posting bond.

All the animals were checked by a veterinarian and are being cared for by volunteers.

The sheriff’s office said the case remains under investigation.

Authorities did not disclose the name of the deceased dog, so I took the liberty of naming him/her Aspen for the tribute image. Should his/her given name be made public, I will rectify it accordingly.

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In the case of charges being dropped, dismissed, or the case being purged, this article will be rectified accordingly, if official documentation is provided to Voice For Us.

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