Naperville Woman Arrested on Felony Animal Cruelty Charges

On May 28, 2024, Naperville Police arrested a Naperville woman charged with multiple felony counts of aggravated animal cruelty following an investigation launched when a concerned citizen reported a case of potential animal abuse. 

The concerned citizen met with Animal Control Officers in October 2023 and reported they had agreed to take care of “Olive,” a pit bull mix dog, while the owner, Christina Helm, 32, who resided on the 100 block of Testa Drive, was on a business trip. Olive was in an emaciated state, could barely walk, and had open sores on her body. She was immediately transported to an emergency veterinary hospital where she was treated for starvation and dehydration. Naperville Police Detectives and Crime Scene Technicians executed a search warrant on Helm’s residence and observed evidence of alleged animal abuse. 

A warrant was issued for Helm on May 23, 2024. She is charged with three counts of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals (Class 4 felony) and three counts of Violation of Owner’s Duties (Class B misdemeanor). Helm is also charged with one count of Endangering the Life or Health of a Child (Class A misdemeanor), for allegedly committing aggravated animal cruelty to an animal that resided in the same residence as a minor.

Helm turned herself into police on May 28 and was transported to DuPage County Jail. The dog made a full recovery and was released to a shelter and adopted.

The Naperville Police wish to remind the public and the news media that a charge is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

Christina Helm

About Naperville: Located 28 miles west of Chicago, Naperville, Ill., is home to approximately 150,000 people. This vibrant, thriving city consistently ranks as a top community in the nation in which to live, raise children and retire. The city is home to acclaimed public and parochial schools, the best public library system in the country, an array of healthcare options and an exceptionally low crime rate. Naperville has ready access to a variety of public transportation, housing and employment options. The city’s diversified employer base features high technology firms, retailers and factories, as well as small and home-based businesses. Residents also enjoy world-class parks, diverse worship options, the opportunity to serve on several City boards and commissions, a thriving downtown shopping and dining area, a renowned outdoor history museum known as Naper Settlement and an active civic community. For more information, please visit our website at www.naperville.il.us.