12-14-05
Waupaca County Circuit Court
Waupaca County Courthouse
811 Harding St.
Waupaca, WI 54981
Dear Hon. Raymond S. Huber,
Based on what I witnessed at the last hearing in Judge Hoffman’s courtroom, I know it is just a matter of time before you are asked to modify bonds in the Niemuth cases that have been recently assigned to your branch. It is on that subject that I write today.
It’s common knowledge that the Niemuths have been acquiring animals since the original seizure, over two months ago now. Given their history of breeding them, and trying to keep too many, this looks like another disaster waiting to happen.
I am of the opinion that at least some of the Niemuths are what is considered to be “animal hoarders”. I don’t know how familiar you are with this syndrome, but I would refer you to this very good article on the subject: .
I have been present at all of the hearings thus far, and it’s been my observation that they report having “x” number of animals, and then it’s found out later that there are more. How can you believe anything they say at this point? When Clifford found out there would be inspections of Jennifer’s animals, he had to cough up the information that he also had guinea pigs. I am a personal witness to the fact that his prior guinea pigs were in terrible condition- inadequately housed/fed/watered, and some in dire need of medical attention. Jennifer and Brian’s animals were in somewhat better condition, however, it was still overall far from what I would consider adequate care and housing, and this couple witnessed daily to the suffering of Clifford’s animals and apparently did nothing to put an end to that.
Practically all of the guinea pigs were suffering from mange mites, as were many of the hamsters. A large percentage of the small animals were pregnant, in spite of being in a state of emaciation and severe parasitic infestation. The dogs and cats were infested with internal and external parasites. It was my understanding that the farm animals were as well. Breeding the animals seemed to be a common theme at the Niemuth household, and all this did was compound a situation that was already out of control.
I believe they should not be in possession, in any way, shape, or form, of ANY animals at this time. Please consider changing the bond to reflect this. Also, due to the apparent misrepresentation on the part of the Niemuths as to how many animals they have, I believe it would be a good idea to order that their home be inspected periodically to make sure they do not have any animals in their possession.
The sooner this happens, the better. Every day that animals are in that home, there is an increased risk of pregnancy, infection, and parasitic infestation that some animal rescue group will likely have to deal with later. This community, and indeed, the whole state, is still struggling to find homes for many of the animals that were taken in the prior seizure. Please help keep the situation from getting any worse than it already is.
Thank you for your consideration in this matter,
~Monica Gates
CC: Waupaca County District Attorney’s Office