Fact Check: Ohio Woman Accused of Eating Cat Is From Canton, Not Springfield

Authorities initially misidentified suspect's hometown

Canton resident faces animal cruelty charges

Authorities in Ohio have corrected an earlier report that a woman accused of eating a cat was from Springfield. The suspect is actually from Canton, a city about 50 miles away.

The correction was made after police received numerous calls from people who said they knew the suspect and that she was not from Springfield.

The suspect, 42-year-old Michelle Martinko, was arrested on Monday and charged with animal cruelty. Police say she killed and ate a cat that belonged to her neighbor.

Martinko is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday. If convicted, she could face up to a year in jail and a $2,500 fine.

Canton Animal Protective League offers support

The Canton Animal Protective League is offering support to the victim's family and is urging anyone with information about the case to come forward.

"This is a senseless and horrific crime," said CAPL Executive Director Amy Beichler. "We are heartbroken for the victim's family and we are committed to helping them get justice."

CAPL is a non-profit organization that provides shelter and care for abused and neglected animals. The organization also offers a variety of programs to promote responsible pet ownership.

Animal cruelty is a serious crime

Animal cruelty is a serious crime that can result in jail time and fines. In Ohio, animal cruelty is defined as any act that causes pain or suffering to an animal.

There are many different types of animal cruelty, including:

• Beating or kicking an animal
• Starving or neglecting an animal
• Abandoning an animal
• Killing an animal

If you witness animal cruelty, it is important to report it to the authorities. You can contact your local animal control agency or the police.