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How unthinkable it is that we'd be having to expose another vile case of sexual animal abuse, but now a case in Maryland involving beastiality and child porn has brought these reprehensible crimes to light after a five month investigation. Urge the State's Attorney to prosecute this case to the fullest extent the law will allow.

In November 2020, an anonymous tip led Frederick County Animal Control to investigate Jason Havelt, who was believed to be abusing his dogs, but unfortunately, nothing turned up.

Another tip in December 2021 to the Frederick County Sheriff's Office successfully led to an investigation. Deputies and Frederick County Animal Control were provided with a USB drive containing photographic evidence showing that Havelt was engaging in the sexual abuse of his dogs. A further search of his three cell phones uncovered even more photo and video evidence of animal abuse.

A more comprehensive search of Havelt's electronic devices by detectives also found videos of child pornography, including acts involving animals, and additionally there were images of Havelt and multiple weapons, which he was prohibited from having because of a previous felony conviction.

He was charged with 16 counts of child porn, weapons, and animal cruelty. According to the Sheriff's Office, charges included:

• Child porn with the intent to promote/distribute
• Possession of child pornography
• Firearm possession with a felony conviction
• Illegal possession of ammunition
• Illegal possession of a regulated firearm
• Two counts of rifle/shotgun in possession with a felony conviction
• Two counts of possessing a rifle/shotgun being convicted of a disqualifying crime
• Seven counts of aggravated cruelty to an animal

Havelt was denied bond and incarcerated in the Frederick County Adult Detention Center.

These crimes could put him away for life. Join In Defense of Animals in sending an impactful message to State Attorney J. Charles Smith III that our society will not stand for lenient sentencing for these sorts of vile crimes involving the sexual expolitation of animals.

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