An Australian woman who stole human toes from an animal shelter's trash with plans to sell them online has avoided jail time.
Joanna Kathlyn Kinman, 48, worked at an animal shelter where, in February 2024, two surrendered dogs vomited up human toes they had consumed after their owner died of natural causes, as reported by the Sydney Morning Herald.
The remains were discarded, but Kinman reportedly retrieved the toes, preserved them in formaldehyde and researched selling them online, believing they could fetch AU$400, or about $254. Police discovered them at her home after receiving a tip.
Kinman, an active member of the online group Bone Buddies Australia, where human and animal remains were discussed and traded, pleaded guilty to offensive conduct involving human remains.
Prosecutors detailed her collection of macabre items, including an alligator claw, a guinea pig trotter and her children's baby teeth. The court found her behavior disturbing but ruled that it did not warrant jail time.
On Monday, Kinman was sentenced to an 18-month community corrections order with 150 hours of community service. She also lost her job and faced significant online backlash.
The 48-year-old's defense lawyer emphasized her remorse and argued that her actions were impulsive rather than malicious.
