Couple Gets More Time In Animal Cruel Impoundment Case

An Idaho Falls couple is facing charges of cruel impoundment of a dog named Pongo.

Last April, Pongo was taken from their home on 17th Street. The couple claims Animal Control illegally took their dog. That was the subject of a hearing Monday.

Pongo weighed 39 and 1/2 pounds when he was taken from the Huffman’s home in April, Now he is just over 65 pounds and he can run, jump and play. Pongo is a dalmation mix.

His owners, Robert and Meachell Huffman, are accused of cruel impoundment, a charge Robert Huffman was found guilty of in 2008.

Since that conviction, the couple has been ordered to have no more than two animals at a time. That includes fish, cats, dogs and just about anything else.

In court Monday, the Huffmans’ lawyer asked for more time to listen to tapes recorded the day Animal Control took Pongo.

The Huffmans claim Animal Control officers illegal removed Pongo.

As the defense was listening to the tapes, Robert Huffman had a medical emergency in the hall of the courthouse.

“The individual is with paramedics and is being transported,” said the attorney.

“So he has actually been transported at this time?” said the judge.

“Yes, he has been transported, and he is the co-defendant and husband of my client,” said the attorney.

This didn’t surprise the Animal Control officers. They said Robert Huffman often has seizures or medical issues.

“So we will continue in two weeks. That should be enough time,” said the judge.

“Two weeks is fine,” said the defending attorney.

The hearing has been moved to Aug. 29. Idaho Falls Animal Control also is holding another of the Huffmans’ dogs, which was taken under a search warrant.