The United States District Court has sentenced Envigo RMS, LLC, and Envigo Global Services, Inc. (collectively known as “Envigo”) for conspiring to knowingly violate the Animal Welfare Act and Clean Water Act, as announced by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia today.
Envigo RMS has been accused of conspiring to violate the Animal Welfare Act. Court documents reveal that the company failed to provide proper veterinary care, adequate staffing, and safe living conditions for dogs at its facility in Cumberland County.
In June 2024, Envigo admitted guilt regarding the dog breeding facility located in Cumberland County, Virginia. It was during this case that the Justice Department successfully obtained the surrender of more than 4,000 beagles in 2022.
Envigo has been fined $22 million and sentenced to a minimum of three years of probation as part of its settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice. In addition to the financial penalties, Envigo is obligated to invest a minimum of $7 million in upgrading its facilities and personnel, surpassing the requirements set by the Animal Welfare Act.
The company is also responsible for covering the expenses of a compliance monitor. This monitor will ensure that the company complies with the Animal Welfare Act and the Clean Water Act, and will enforce stricter animal welfare standards.
In June 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office ordered Envigo to pay around $1.1 million to the Virginia Animal Fighting Task Force and $1.9 million to the Humane Society of the United States. These organizations provided valuable assistance during the investigation.
Envigo had to pay $3.5 million to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation for the purpose of restoring the environment and ecosystems in Cumberland County, Virginia.
Envigo’s parent company, Inotiv, Inc., is responsible for ensuring payments totaling over $35 million, which is the largest fine ever imposed in an Animal Welfare Act case, according to the department.
