Target: Marian T. Ryan, District Attorney, Middlesex County, Massachusetts
Goal: Seek the harshest sentences, full restitution, mandatory counseling, and a permanent ban on animal ownership for the individual reportedly filmed swinging a cat by the tail and repeatedly slamming him to the ground.
Sage, a one‑year‑old cat, was reportedly surrendered to an animal‑protection agency with a broken tail, lung contusions, and other injuries. Investigators say they uncovered video that appears to show the cat falling from an upper‑floor window before a man grabs him by the tail, slams him onto pavement multiple times, and drags him back inside. Earlier in the year the same cat had reportedly suffered fractures to his palate and toes after another high fall, suggesting a pattern of peril.
Responders say Sage arrived emaciated, fearful, and in pain. Veterinary teams stabilized him and prepared him for neuter surgery so he can be adopted into a safe home. Meanwhile, law‑enforcement officers arrested a suspect on two counts of animal cruelty. Officials also expressed concern that the defendant might pose a broader threat and noted statements about leaving the state.
Massachusetts law allows jail time, fines, and probation conditions for felony‑level animal cruelty. Maximum sentencing, a lifelong ban on owning or handling animals, restitution for medical costs, and compulsory psychological evaluation can help ensure Sage’s abuser never again harms a living creature. Such decisive action would also deter copycat violence and honor the vigilance of the tipster who helped save Sage.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear District Attorney Ryan,
A video reportedly captures a man swinging a cat by the tail, slamming him on pavement, and pulling him inside after the animal fell from an upper‑floor window. Subsequent veterinary exams documented a broken tail, lung contusions, and earlier fractures. These details suggest calculated cruelty and a pattern of dangerous neglect.
We respectfully urge your office to pursue the highest allowable penalties on every count, request consecutive sentences where statute permits, and seek full restitution to cover Sage’s medical care, rehabilitation, and ongoing shelter costs. Please also ask the court for a permanent prohibition on owning or handling animals and order mandatory counseling to address the violent behavior demonstrated.
A firm, public resolution will protect other animals, affirm community outrage, and show that Middlesex County takes animal cruelty seriously. Thank you for using every legal tool to secure justice for Sage.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Helgi Halldórsson
