Pets of slain Lompoc woman delivered to her surviving family in Texas
LOMPOC, Calif. - Pets that belonged to a Lompoc woman who was shot and killed last month are now living with the woman's surviving family in Texas.
18-year-old Sarah Stoffle was shot and killed on March 25 in Lompoc. Stoffle's boyfriend has been charged in her death.
According to Santa Barbara County District Attorney Joyce Dudley, Stoffle had recently moved to Lompoc from Texas and had two husky puppies and a cat that were left abandoned after her death.
The Lompoc Police Department and Lompoc Animal Control rescued the animals, and transported them to the Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society/DAWG Shelter.
After the loss of their daughter, Stoffle's family wanted a piece of her life to bring home.
They reached out to the Lompoc Police Department and the Santa Barbara County District Attorney's Office Victim Advocate for help bringing her animals back to Texas, as they couldn't make the trip themselves due to COVID-19 travel restrictions.
The DA's office coordinated a plan with several animal welfare partners, including the Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society, CARE4Paws and the Animal Shelter Assistance Program, to organize safe transportation for the animals. Mia Harrington, a local dog care professional, also lent a hand by transporting the animals halfway to Arizona.
On April 16, thanks to the joint efforts of all the agencies involved, the pets arrived at their new home surrounded by familiar faces.
"The parents of the victim are very grateful to have their daughter’s animals, especially now as they begin their grieving process," said Santa Barbara County District Attorney Joyce Dudley in a press release.
If you, a loved one or a neighbor is in danger of being abused, you can contact the Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office Victim Assistance Program at 805-568-2400; a victim advocate is available to talk to you 24/7.
