By Shereen Siewert

WAUSAU — One of two people arrested in a horrific animal abuse case in which a puppy had to be euthanized will spend three years on probation, after she reached a plea deal with prosecutors in the case.

Kimberly Lawrence appeared this week in Marathon County Circuit Court, where she was convicted of multiple counts of animal mistreatment and dognapping.

Lawrence, 43, and Randy Diels, 37, were arrested in November after Marathon County Sheriff’s officials seized two dozen animals from the couple’s home. The animals were being held in conditions so horrifying a 3-month-old puppy had to be put to death.

Investigators said many of the animals did not have adequate food or water, and some were housed in cages so small they were unable to stand up or move, according to court documents.

In addition to probation, Marathon County Reserve Judge Thomas Grover also ordered Lawrence to undergo counseling, complete 75 hours of community service — preferably at the Humane Society of Marathon County — and pay $4,647 in restitution and veterinary costs. Lawrence is also forbidden to have more than two pets in her household, according to court records.

Diels, who also faces burglary charges, is due in court Feb. 6.