Laurie Bryant, a Paso Robles resident, has been granted a two-year mental health diversion following her plea of not guilty to seven felony counts of animal cruelty. The charges stemmed from an incident in 2024 when over 30 deceased cats were discovered in her apartment after she moved out. Her trial was scheduled to proceed until a judge approved her motion for diversion on October 13, 2026. If Bryant successfully completes the treatment, the charges against her will be dismissed.