WINTON – The trial date for the two PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) employees has been continued again.

The trial, originally slated to begin July 19 at the Hertford County Courthouse, was continued to August 16, but has been continued again to September 13.

According to the District Attorney’s Office in Ahoskie, the prosecution and defense mutually agreed to the continuance.

Adria Joy Hinkle, 27, of Norfolk, Virginia and Andrew Benjamin Cook, 24, of Virginia Beach, Va. stand accused on a combined 62 felony counts of cruelty to animals and eight counts each of illegal disposal of animals following their June 15 arrests in Ahoskie. An additional charge of illegal trespassing was later filed against both individuals.

Lab results are in confirming if the drugs (Ketamine and Pentobarbital) found in the van operated by Hinkle and Cook are the same as the substance found in one of the dogs retained for an autopsy. According to Ahoskie Police Chief Troy Fitzhugh, that information will be revealed during court proceedings.