Crime & Safety
Woman Accused Of Abusing Dog In Naperville
Police say they found a pit bull mix named Olivia "emaciated" and with "open sores" inside the home of Christina Helm, 32.
NAPERVILLE, IL — A Naperville woman has been charged with multiple felonies after police say they found a dog named Olive "emaciated, covered in open sores and struggling to walk inside her home."
Christina Helm, 32, was charged with aggravated animal cruelty and violation of owner's duties. She was also charged with endangering the life or health of a child because police say she abused the animal in a home where a minor lived.
In Oct. 2023, police got a call from a concerned resident who said they had been taking care of Olive at Helm's home in the 100 block of Testa Drive while Helm was out of town. Olive was taken to an emergency vet and treated for dehydration and starvation.
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The dog later recovered, according to a news release.
A warrant for Helm's arrest was issued after police say they searched her home and saw evidence that indicated animal abuse.
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Helm was taken to DuPage County Jail after she turned herself in on May 28.
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