On June 10, 2026, Michael Stini pleaded guilty under the Criminal Code 445(1)(a) to injuring or endangering other animals.
Stini admitted to shooting and killing his neighbour’s dog, Stone, while Stone was immobilized in a foot-hold trap on Stini’s property.
The offense took place on February 23, 2023, and directly contradicted guidance from conservation officers to not to engage with or dispatch any animal.
Prior to the incident involving Stone, Stini had reported to the B.C. Conservation Officer Service and local RCMP that a cougar was attacking his livestock.
Conservation officers placed foot-hold traps on Stini’s farm and instructed him not to shoot or kill any animals that become trapped. Conservation officers were already on route to release Stone from the traps. However, upon arrival at the property, they found Stone deceased by gunshot. Stone’s body was transported to the BC SPCA Port Alberni Community Animal Centre to await a necropsy examination where conservation officers learned the family of the dog had previously called to report Stone as missing.
Following an investigation conducted by the BC SPCA’s animal protection team, charges were recommended under the Criminal Code 445(1)(a).
“It is crucial that people fully understand their rights and responsibilities under Provincial and Canadian animal cruelty laws including where those rights and responsibilities end,” says Kaley Pugh, regional manager, cruelty investigations at the BC SPCA.
"People are permitted to protect their livestock from dogs, but there are restrictions. The Livestock Protection Act is clear that the dog has to be running at large and attacking or viciously pursuing the livestock. Stone was immobilized in a foot-hold trap; the investigations revealed that he did not approach the livestock.”
Stone’s necropsy report showed that his body was in good condition, the foot-hold trap did not cause significant injuries, and that it was the bullet caused instant or near instantaneous death.
“Stone was a valuable family member of our home, he was never aggressive to anything,” Stone’s family shared with the BC SPCA. "He was a gentle soul and loved everyone.”
Following his guilty plea, Stini received a conditional discharge with 12 months probation, a $2,500 fine and $250 restitution. The judge also imposed a victim surcharge of $2,500 with three years to pay.
