A La Plata County man previously convicted of animal abuse pleaded guilty this week to violating the terms of his probation after he was found last summer in possession of animals, a violation of the terms of his plea agreement.
Elizabeth and Jeffrey Jackson were charged with more than 100 counts of animal cruelty after animals were found on their property living in cages filled with urine and feces, lacked access to food and water, and had injuries that went untreated.
Ultimately, the charges were reduced and the Jacksons struck a plea agreement that called for three years’ probation, during which time the couple were not allowed to have animals in their possession.
This summer, however, authorities were alerted the Jacksons once again had animals on their property. A search Aug. 5 found several animals, including dogs, cats, horses and goats, according to court documents.
This fall, the Jacksons had their probations revoked and were ordered to undergo mental health evaluations.
On Wednesday, Jeffery Jackson admitted to violating probation. While no new punishments were ordered, Jackson’s three-year probation sentence was reinstated with the original conditions, according to a court clerk.
Jackson must continue to receive mental health treatment through probation services. He is not allowed to violate the law, except for minor traffic infractions. And he must pay restitution and court costs, if ordered by the court.
Jackson must also not be found in possession of animals.
The resentencing is similar to that handed down in December to his wife, Elizabeth Jackson, who also goes by her maiden name, Miera, in court records.
Elizabeth Jackson also had her three-year probation sentence restarted, and she must undergo even more intensive mental health care treatment.
Elizabeth Jackson’s defense attorney argued at the time that Elizabeth Jackson’s behavior was not “criminal in nature,” but rather caused by mental health issues.
A previous evaluation said Elizabeth Jackson suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder because she can’t be around animals, according to the judge who oversaw the December hearing.
jromeo@durangoherald.com