Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has initiated legal action against an organization he claims misused charitable donations to benefit a for-profit puppy business in Mount Vernon. The lawsuit alleges that the nonprofit, known as Dogs to the Rescue, funneled funds to Little Puppies Online, operated by Nathan and Sara Bazler, while its board members received substantial payments despite the organization reporting minimal assets.
Details of the Allegations
In a press release, Yost’s office outlined the allegations against the Bazlers and board member Opal Mustain. The complaint accuses them of unjust enrichment, breach of fiduciary duty, and other violations of Ohio’s charitable laws. Specifically, it notes that board members collectively paid themselves $354,000 in 2022, while the nonprofit reported just $42 remaining in assets. “It doesn’t take a bloodhound to sniff out this scheme,” Yost remarked in the release, emphasizing the apparent misuse of charitable contributions.
The complaint also references prior legal issues faced by the Bazlers in Maryland, where they agreed to shut down Maryland Puppies Online and pay civil penalties after being accused of violating puppy-mill regulations. As reported by WTOP, Maryland has prohibited the company from selling or transferring dogs and imposed penalties that could reach $250,000 if settlement terms are violated.
Background and Community Impact
Animal welfare advocates have raised concerns about Little Puppies Online and related operations, citing inspection violations and poor living conditions for animals. Reports compiled by the Humane Society document various state and USDA actions against the Bazlers’ operations across multiple states, highlighting a troubling pattern.
On its website, Little Puppies Online presents itself as a family-run business that provides veterinary checks and partners with Dogs to the Rescue for placing animals. However, the lawsuit suggests that funds donors believed were supporting rescue efforts were instead used to cover debts and payroll for the for-profit aspect of the business.
The case, led by the Charitable Law Section of Yost’s office, seeks civil penalties, restitution, and a court order to prevent the defendants from soliciting donations or operating charitable organizations in Ohio in the future. Yost’s office also provided information for Ohio residents on how to report suspected charity fraud, aiming to protect community members from potential scams.
As the case unfolds, it raises significant questions about the accountability of organizations operating in the animal welfare sector and the importance of transparency in charitable fundraising.
