In November 2021, Edmonton Fire and Rescue Services (EFRS) attended a residential structure fire in the area of 20 Avenue and 112A Street. Upon arrival, they discovered close to 700 reptiles and amphibians that appeared seriously neglected and many had died prior to any effects of the fire. Edmonton Animal Care & Control (ACC) was called by EFRS to attend and given the sheer quantity and condition of the animals ACIU was also asked to assist.
ACIU member Const. Ilka Cunningham stated, “When we think of ‘animal cruelty’ our minds almost always go to cats and dogs; this investigation is a sad reminder of the suffering many exotic reptiles endure at the hands of breeders and importers.”
Following an intensive investigation that required close teamwork with ACC, ACIU and Environment Canada Wildlife Officers, John Makaryshyn, 31, was charged with 37 counts of offences under the Animal Cruelty section of the Criminal Code of Canada, including willfully permits to be caused unnecessary pain, suffering to an animal and being the owner or the person having custody or control of an animal willfully neglects it or fails to provide suitable and adequate food, water, shelter and care for it.
In addition, Makaryshyn is charged with 89 counts under the Animal Protection Act of Alberta, including cause or permit said animal to be or to continue to be in distress, fail to ensure said animal has adequate food and water, fail to provide said animal with adequate care when it was wounded or ill, fail to provide said animal with reasonable protection from injurious heat or cold, and fail to provide said animal with adequate shelter, ventilation, or space.