By Kirk Flatter & Associated Press
 
August 29, 2008
 
MERLIN, Ore. -- Three people suspected of involvement in the killing of four puppies are now facing criminal charges.
 
The last suspect wanted in the case, 16-year-old Holly Hopkins, turned herself in to police Thursday. On Friday was arraigned. She is facing a total of nine felony charges that include burglary, theft, and criminal mischief.
 
The other two suspects, Harley's older brother, 22-year-old Harley Hopkins, and North Valley High School Classmate 16-year-old Jacob Goodboe, were arrested on Tuesday. They face the same charges as Holly. As of this time, none of the suspects are face animal abuse charges.
 
"When we review and file a case we have to have proof beyond reasonable doubt in order to go forward. And we are not at that point at this stage of the investigation in regard to those animal abuse charges," says Josephine County District Attorney Stephen Campbell.
 
Holly Hopkins and Goodboe are being detained in Josephine County Juvenile Detention Center. Harley Hopkins is in in the Josephine County Jail.
 
Last Friday, kennel fences were cut at the Josephine County Animal Shelter and 11 dogs were stolen. Four border collie puppies were found beaten to death later that night. Over the past week, six of the missing dogs have been found and returned. Holly Hopkins' attorney turned in the the last one Thursday morning.
 
Police say the three of them initially broke into the shelter to get an impounded dog belonging to one of them. There have been six break-ins at the county shelter this year, officials say, mostly people retrieving their animals without paying fines or fees. Shelter officials say they have raised several thousand dollars from donations that will be used to install extra security systems.