Duo Charged in Freezing Husky's Death Held for Court

Tori Jackna and Scott Bayle face charges of aggravated cruelty to animals and neglect after Aimee the husky was found abandoned and frozen.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Tori Jackna, 26, and Scott Bayle, 23, appeared in Erie County Court on Thursday for a preliminary and bail hearing after being charged in the death of Aimee, a husky found frozen and abandoned in the cold. Both Jackna and Bayle waived all charges for court, with Jackna facing felony aggravated cruelty to animals and misdemeanor charges, and Bayle facing felony aggravated cruelty to animals and misdemeanor neglect and cruelty charges.

Why it matters

The death of Aimee the husky has sparked outrage in the community and led to new proposed legislation in Pennsylvania to increase penalties for animal abusers. This case highlights the ongoing issue of animal cruelty and the need for stronger laws and enforcement to protect vulnerable pets.

The details

Aimee was found in a crate, frostbitten, emaciated and covered in her own waste in late January. Despite days of treatment from the ANNA Shelter, Aimee ultimately passed away from her injuries. Jackna and Bayle now face serious charges related to Aimee's suffering and death.

  • Aimee was found in late January 2026.
  • Jackna and Bayle appeared in court on Thursday, February 12, 2026.

The players

Tori Jackna

A 26-year-old Erie resident charged with felony aggravated cruelty to animals and misdemeanor making false reports to law enforcement, neglect of and cruelty to animals.

Scott Bayle

A 23-year-old Erie resident charged with felony aggravated cruelty to animals and misdemeanor neglect of and cruelty to animals.

Aimee

A husky found frozen and abandoned in the cold, who later died from her injuries despite treatment.

Edward Wilson

The District Judge presiding over the preliminary and bail hearing for Jackna and Bayle.

ANNA Shelter

The animal shelter that provided treatment for Aimee before she passed away.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on whether to allow Jackna and Bayle to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the urgent need for stronger laws and enforcement to protect vulnerable animals from cruelty and neglect. The community is demanding justice for Aimee and calling for meaningful change to prevent such senseless suffering in the future.