Target: Tom Bakkedahl, State Attorney, 19th Judicial Circuit, St. Lucie County, Florida
Goal: Secure the toughest lawful felony sentences, consecutive terms on all counts, a lifetime prohibition on owning or working with animals, and mandated psychological treatment for the man allegedly responsible for torturing and killing multiple kittens.
Authorities opened an investigation after a concerned individual alerted police about injured kittens inside a Port St. Lucie home. The tipster said four kittens were present, one with a broken leg, and that seven others adopted since March 2025 had died under suspicious circumstances. Officers later reportedly removed four surviving kittens—one with a broken jaw and others with additional injuries.
According to reports, the suspect hurled kittens to the ground, punched them in the face (purportedly breaking at least one neck), drowned them, and inflicted “other trauma.” He reportedly wore long rubber gloves to avoid scratches and had all seven deceased kittens cremated. During a June 19 search, police purportedly found books on witchcraft, demonology, sacrifices, and ritualistic processes. He was arrested on eight felony animal-cruelty counts and held on a $600,000 bond.
Meaningful accountability is essential to protect future animals and uphold community safety. Florida law allows significant prison time and fines for felony cruelty; courts can also impose long-term or permanent bans on animal ownership. Sign below to demand the prosecuting office press every applicable charge, pursue consecutive sentencing, and request mandatory counseling to address violent tendencies. Justice demands nothing less.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Mr. Bakkedahl,
We are horrified by reports that a Port St. Lucie man allegedly tortured and killed multiple kittens adopted from shelters, and that additional kittens were reportedly found injured in his home. Accounts describe animals being thrown to the ground, punched—apparently breaking a neck—drowned, and subjected to other forms of trauma. Such apparent cruelty toward vulnerable beings demands the strongest prosecutorial response available.
Florida statutes provide for felony penalties in egregious animal-cruelty cases. We respectfully urge your office to seek the maximum sentence on each felony count, pursue consecutive terms where permitted, and request a lifetime ban on owning, keeping, or working with animals. Court-ordered psychological evaluation and treatment should accompany any conviction or plea to help prevent future violence.
A firm, visible stance will signal that calculated, repeated harm to defenseless animals will not be tolerated in St. Lucie County. Please use every legal tool at your disposal to ensure full accountability and lasting protection for companion animals.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: gwen roolf
