Justice for Dog Allegedly Shot Dead by Pet Sitter

Target: Renée M. Robeson, Hunterdon County Prosecutor, New Jersey

Goal: Ensure man faces appropriate legal consequences for allegedly shooting and killing a dog, Remi, entrusted to his care.

A tragic case of alleged animal cruelty has come to light in Hunterdon County, New Jersey, where a couple’s dog was reportedly shot to death by their pet sitter. Lindsey Scalera and Andrew Beifus, who had entrusted their beloved Pit Bull, Remi, to Kalli Cooke and her husband Craig for pet sitting services, were horrified to learn that their pet had been killed. According to reports, Craig Cooke admitted to shooting Remi twice in the head after claiming the dog had “gotten into a tussle” with another dog and allegedly went after his pregnant wife. However, Remi’s owners have expressed disbelief at this explanation, citing their dog’s history and temperament.

Remi, who had been adopted from a rescue shelter six years ago, was described by Beifus as a loving and gentle dog who showed no signs of aggression towards the Cookes during their initial meeting. The couple’s heartbreaking account of the incident suggests a possible case of unjustified violence against their pet. Following the incident, Craig Cooke was arrested and charged with second-degree possession of a weapon and third-degree animal cruelty. Meanwhile, the pet sitting service, Rover, has removed the Cookes from their platform and has committed to cooperating fully with law enforcement.

This incident underscores the critical need for justice in cases of alleged animal abuse. It is essential that the Hunterdon County District Attorney thoroughly investigates this case and pursues appropriate legal action against Craig Cooke. Such action is necessary not only to bring justice for Remi but also to ensure the safety and well-being of all pets entrusted to the care of others.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Prosecutor Renée M. Robeson,

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent case of alleged animal cruelty involving Craig Cooke, who has been accused of shooting a couple’s dog, Remi, while entrusted with its care. According to reports, the dog’s owners, Lindsey Scalera and Andrew Beifus, had left Remi with Kalli and Craig Cooke for pet sitting services, only to receive a shocking phone call from Craig stating that he had shot their dog twice in the head.

This tragic incident raises serious questions about the actions of Craig Cooke and his apparent disregard for the life and well-being of an animal under his care. Remi, who had been adopted from a rescue shelter and had shown no signs of aggression during his initial interactions with the Cookes, was reportedly a loving and gentle dog. The explanation provided by Craig Cooke for his actions does not align with the dog’s known behavior, suggesting a possible case of unwarranted violence.

I urge you to pursue this case with the utmost seriousness and to ensure that Craig Cooke is held accountable under the law for his alleged actions. By taking decisive legal action, you will send a clear message that animal cruelty will not be tolerated and that those responsible for such acts will face appropriate consequences. Justice for Remi is essential not only to honor his memory but also to protect other animals from similar harm in the future.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo credit: Realironman