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AIREAL TANAI AMES arrested - Her dog was found wandering with a collar embedded in his neck

Updated: May 12, 2023

- South Carolina, USA -


The Columbia Police Department (CPD) said that a concerned citizen saw a dog wandering the area of Corola Avenue near North Main Street with a collar embedded in his neck and called 9-1-1 for help.


Following the request for help, City of Columbia Animal Control officers responded to the area and found the dog, a Cane Corso named Banx. Animal Control then called in CPD for assistance and Banx was immediately taken to a veterinarian.


As stated in a press release by CPD, “In a 17-page report of exam findings, Banx ‘suffered unnecessary pain and suffering’.” The veterinarian further determined that Banx was “emaciated” weighing 88 pounds. Banx’s body’s condition scored 2 out of 9 on the Purina Body Condition Scale. The veterinarian reported that Banx “had a flea and hookworm infestation, anemia, worn teeth, plus, significant scarring and inflammation of the neck due to the embedded collar,” said police. Banx required surgery to remove the collar and to treat the injuries on his neck. The good news is that he is on the mend while his medical care continues.


The Columbia Police Department said that 32-years-old AIREAL TANAI AMES (pictured), is accused of failing to properly care for Banx.

AMES turned herself in to Columbia Police Department (CPD) officers on the morning of Wednesday, April 26, 2023. She is charged with Felony Ill Treatment of Animals.

AMES was released from the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center after posting a meager $1,000 bond.

Online court records show that AMES is due back in Columbia Municipal Court on May 26, 2023.


Voice For Us Disclaimer: This story is sourced from official news outlets. Links included.

Details may be removed or additional information may be provided in future should such sources report an update.



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CAROLINE DAWN PENNINGTON arrested after authorities discovered dozens of dead animals at her home

- South Carolina, USA -


Deputies with the Richland County Sheriff’s Office arrested 47-years-old CAROLINE DAWN PENNINGTON (pictured) after they discovered the bodies of 2 cats and 28 dogs decomposing in cages, lying in their own waste, inside her home on Dibble Lane, Columbia.


Lieutenant Joe Clarke called it “the largest loss of life in one location.”


The discovery occurred on May 22, 2022, while officials were performing a wellness check at PENNINGTON’s residence after a neighbor reported a “smell of death” wafting from the property.


Investigators say the furbabies appeared to have died of starvation and dehydration and were left inside their cages between seven and nine months.


PENNINGTON is a well-known figure in the animal rescue community. She is the CEO and director of a South Carolina animal rescue nonprofit called GROWL, and was also employed by the Kershaw County Humane Society.


On June 3, 2022, the Kershaw County Humane Society wrote in a Facebook post: “Earlier today, a former Kershaw County Humane Society employee was arrested by the Richland County Sheriff’s Department and charged with ill treatment of animals. To be clear, these events did not occur at the Kershaw County Humane Society facility. We were unaware of the former employee’s actions and are truly shocked and heartbroken. Our dedicated staff will continue with our mission to serve the lost and homeless pets of Kershaw County.”


Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott rightfully said: “It’s appalling and it’s heartbreaking. This is someone who was entrusted by the community to care for these animals and find them homes. She betrayed that trust and she betrayed the trust of these innocent animals who relied on her.”


PENNINGTON was taken into custody after she turned herself in on Friday, June 3, 2022.

She was booked at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center on 30 counts of ill treatment of animals and bond was set at $75,000.

Online records show she is no longer in custody.


The Richland County Sheriff’s Office is encouraging anyone who made donations to the nonprofit GROWL within the last year to call deputies immediately.

According to WLTX, the sheriff’s office is now investigating PENNINGTON for fraud as well.


Voice For Us Disclaimer: This story is sourced from official news outlets. Links included.

Details may be removed or additional information may be provided in future should such sources report an update.




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