Woman who injected cat with fentanyl pleads guilty to criminal cruelty charges

This undated photo shows the paws of a cat.

A woman who tried to euthanize her cat by injecting it with fentanyl has pleaded guilty to a criminal animal cruelty charge, according to the B.C. SPCA.

An investigation into Jayme-Jo Crystal Brooks was launched in 2024 after a veterinarian reported concerns about a cat in “critical distress,” a statement from the animal welfare organization said.

After the animal was humanely euthanized, the B.C. SPCA ordered a necropsy which “revealed fentanyl exposure had occurred.”

A search of Brooks house resulted in the seizure of two other cats and testing revealed both of them had been exposed to illicit drugs, including cocaine and methamphetamine.

“One cat was happily adopted into a loving family; however, the other unfortunately had severe underlying health concerns and was humanely euthanized upon the recommendation of veterinarians,” the statement from the B.C. SPCA said.

Brooks pleaded guilty to the criminal offence of administering a poisonous or injurious drug or substance to a domestic animal and was sentenced to 12 months of probation, mandatory counselling, and 30 hours of community service. She was also handed a five-year ban on owning or living in the same residence as an animal or bird.

“A criminal code conviction sends a stronger message and reflects a higher level of societal condemnation and accountability, and (is) typically reserved for the most serious cases,” the statement from the B.C. SPCA said.

“Brooks’ cruelty conviction is considered victorious as it sets a precedent against at-home euthanasia practices that inflict unnecessary harm,” it continued.

The organization also urged anyone who is struggling to care for their animal call 1-855-622-7722.