Marinette County Sheriff Randy Miller says recently, there have been several social media posts circulating about the lack of care for several dogs at a location in the Town of Stephenson. In a Facebook post, Miller says deputies have responded to this location multiple times in the past, as has the Town of Stephenson. Licensed veterinarians have also been asked to assist in evaluating the dogs in the past. On several occasions, ordinance citations were issued by the town and the county, and, at another point, criminal charges were referred but were later dismissed because of the burden not being met to prove the case.

The Town of Stephenson animal control officer has been working with the dog owner to remedy various issues that have been identified. Together with the Town of Stephenson, deputies and the sheriff responded to this location again on Wednesday June 18, 2025. Two licensed veterinarians responded to evaluate the dogs at this time as well, and the dog owner allowed entry to the property. During this visit, it was determined that there was not enough to pursue criminal charges within the limits of the laws as they are currently written.

Millers says although this is not how many of us would care for our pets, as law enforcement, we cannot take action based solely on how we may feel about a situation. We can only take action within the laws or ordinances that we are given in order to stand up to the judicial process that follows. He says the Sheriff’s Department  will continue to respond and will take any actions necessary if and when any ordinance or law is violated.

Miller says additionally, we are aware of comments about trespassing onto this property and for the safety of all, please do not enter this property.