Protecting Children and Animals: Justice Served in Disturbing Dog Attack Case
In a tragic and deeply disturbing case out of Ashland County, Ohio, justice has been served following the sentencing of a woman who allowed a dog to maul her handcuffed six-year-old son.
Angelina Williams was sentenced this week by Ashland County Court of Common Pleas Judge David Stimpert to a minimum of 19 years and up to 23.5 years in prison. Her sentence follows a guilty plea to charges including kidnapping, multiple counts of endangering children, obstructing justice, and possessing criminal tools.
According to earlier reports, Williams handcuffed her child and allowed a pit bull to attack him—an act of cruelty that left the community shocked and horrified.
At Ohio Animal Advocates (OAA), our mission centers on protecting the most vulnerable—both animals and people—from abuse, neglect, and violence. This heartbreaking case is a stark reminder that animal cruelty and child abuse are often interconnected. When violence is present in one form, it is often present in others.
What This Case Teaches Us
Intentional misuse of animals is a serious form of abuse. Dogs—especially breeds like pit bulls, which are already stigmatized—should never be weaponized.
Children must be protected from all forms of violence. This act of torture was not only cruel to the child but also traumatizing and exploitative to the dog used in the attack.
Prevention starts with awareness. Education, early intervention, and community vigilance are key to preventing such extreme abuse.
OAA supports strong legal consequences for those who commit violent crimes involving animals and children. We also urge communities to stay alert and report suspected abuse to authorities. In many cases, intervention can prevent escalation.
If You Suspect Abuse or Neglect:
In Ohio, use OAA's statewide resource list to find out where to report animal cruelty.
For child abuse, contact the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services at 855-O-H-CHILD (855-642-4453).
This case is a painful reminder of how essential it is to protect both people and animals from harm. We must continue working together—as advocates, neighbors, and allies—to create a safer, more compassionate Ohio.
