Marking the latest chapter In a long-standing controversy over his treatment of his wolf-hybrid dogs and compliance with city laws. John Murray, of Susanville, is now facing multiple charges of animal abandonment and is set to appear in court.
On September 23, 2024, Murray was arrested outside of Litchfield, facing charges that included 10 counts of animal abandonment and contempt of court for disobeying a court order.
He has pleaded not guilty to these charges, and a trial-setting conference is scheduled for October 7.
Murray has been released on his own recognizance pending the trial.
Prior to this arrest, Murray had multiple interactions with local authorities regarding the keeping and breeding of wolf-dog hybrids on his property on Fourth Street in Susanville.
Neighbors and community members have lodged numerous complaints over the years concerning disturbances caused by these animals, including excessive noise, unpleasant odors, and instances of the dogs roaming at large.
City records indicate that from September 2017 through August 2022, there were at least 116 calls for service related to his property.
In response to these complaints, the Susanville City Council held public hearings and issued nuisance abatement orders.
On August 12, 2024, the council unanimously approved a resolution declaring Murray’s dogs a public nuisance due to violations such as exceeding the allowed number of dogs without a kennel license, failure to provide proof of vaccinations, and allowing the dogs to roam freely.
Murray was ordered to reduce the number of dogs at his residence to six or fewer unless he obtained the necessary permits, and to ensure all dogs were vaccinated and licensed. These ongoing issues have been a source of much frustration for the community, there’s hope this will bring a lasting resolution to the matter.
