Kelly Labonte faces ongoing legal battles over animal rehabilitation accusations

The Michigan House of Representatives convened on May 14, 2025, to address concerns regarding the oversight and alleged weaponization of state government against wildlife rehabilitator Kelly Labonte. The meeting featured testimonies from Labonte and her supporters, highlighting a protracted legal battle that has spanned nearly seven years.

The session began with Labonte's attorney presenting evidence of what they described as frivolous charges against her, including accusations related to the size of animal enclosures and the handling of wildlife. Labonte's attorney emphasized that the charges stemmed from minor violations, such as the format of her annual permit submission, which was done electronically rather than by hand. The attorney argued that these charges were not only baseless but also indicative of a broader pattern of harassment by state officials.

Labonte herself recounted her experiences with law enforcement, noting that officers had failed to inquire about the care of animals in her facility, instead opting to issue citations without proper investigation. She pointed out that many of the animals in question were under medical care, which was not taken into account by the authorities. Labonte also mentioned a recent ruling in her favor by an administrative law judge, which she claimed had not been acknowledged by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), suggesting a retaliatory motive behind the ongoing scrutiny.

Supporters of Labonte, including Shira Christiansen, expressed their concerns about the financial and emotional toll the legal battles have taken on her and her organization. Christiansen highlighted the significant costs incurred, estimating nearly half a million dollars spent on legal fees and the impact on Labonte's ability to care for animals. She described the situation as a personal vendetta against Labonte, exacerbated by the presence of law enforcement outside her home, creating an atmosphere of intimidation.

The meeting concluded with a call for accountability and a request for the DNR to reassess its approach to wildlife rehabilitation in Michigan. Labonte's supporters urged lawmakers to recognize the value of her work and the importance of protecting wildlife, rather than pursuing what they characterized as punitive actions against a dedicated professional.

As the meeting wrapped up, the representatives acknowledged the complexity of the issues at hand and the need for further investigation into the practices of the DNR. The ongoing situation remains a focal point for discussions about the balance of state oversight and the rights of wildlife rehabilitators in Michigan.