Daughter charged after mother's death from dog attack while home alone

In Colorado, an elderly woman named LaVonne Hoff, aged 76, tragically lost her life following a brutal attack by dogs owned by her daughter, Jessica Hoff. This incident occurred in early February, when Jessica left her mother alone at home while she ran errands. LaVonne, suffering from dementia, required constant care and supervision, which Jessica failed to provide, leading to the attack. Upon investigating, authorities discovered LaVonne unresponsive in her home, surrounded by several dogs. An autopsy later confirmed that the cause of death was attributed to injuries sustained in the dog attack. The situation was further compounded by the conditions in which the dogs were living. Police discovered a total of 54 dogs across two properties belonging to Jessica, many of which were in poor health and all of which were found living in unsanitary conditions. Jessica Hoff was later charged with criminal negligence resulting in death and 54 counts of aggravated animal abuse. This disturbing case highlights the severe implications of neglecting the care of both vulnerable individuals and animals, shedding light on the responsibilities of caregivers and pet owners alike. As the investigation unfolded, Pueblo County Sheriff's Office took action based on a report concerning an unconscious woman. When deputies arrived, they found LaVonne in distress, leading to the subsequent discovery of the dogs and the conditions they were in. The investigation revealed that LaVonne Hoff required 24-hour care due to her dementia, a fact that Jessica clearly neglected. Several of the dogs were found to be in poor health, and animal control authorities removed them from the properties. Jessica Hoff was arrested and is currently being held on a $50,000 bond, with her next court appearance scheduled. This case raises critical questions regarding the duties of caregivers and the ethical treatment of animals, as it showcases the tragic outcomes that can arise from negligence and lack of oversight. The community is left grappling with the aftermath of this tragedy and its implications for both human and animal welfare in Colorado.