Group calls for resignation of Humane Society's director



SHEBOYGAN (WITI) -- They stood in the cold and wind asking for one woman's resignation.  A group of more than 20 current and former workers, volunteers, and supporters of the Sheboygan County Humane Society are asking Executive Director Eilene Ribbens to step aside.

Ribbens is facing felony charges after prosecutors say she admitted to lying to a pharmacy, illegally purchasing pet medicine, and handing it out to family members.  If convicted she could face more than six years in prison.

Ribbens is banned from the shelter as part of her bail agreement, but remains on the job.  The Board of Directors says they still back their director "100 percent" and says there is no reason for prosecutors to press charges.

"We need to make a positive change in the shelter and she needs to step down," former volunteer Rochelle Drew said.

On Saturday, April 6th, the group of concerned citizens said the community's faith in the shelter has deteriorated while Ribbens remains on the job.

"I've heard they don't want to donate money," former Executive Director Tammy Harris said. "What everyone needs to remember is it's the animals that ultimately will suffer, so we want to make sure that the public continues to support the animals.

"It clearly states in the employee manual that if you have been charged with falsifying records, that is grounds for termination.  Theft in any form is grounds for termination," former Shelter Manager Carey Schur said.

Schur is hoping that the current Board of Directors will meet with the group, to explain their decision to keep Ribbens in her position.

Ribbens has not returned FOX6's repeated phone calls.  She is due back in court next week.

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