Target: Francis T. “Fran” Chardo, District Attorney of Dauphin County, Pennsylvania
Goal: Seek maximum penalties allowed by law and a long animal-ownership prohibition in a case where a pit bull was reportedly found emaciated and dead in a basement.
Probation officers discovered an emaciated pit bull’s body inside a basement during a home visit, as reported by local authorities. Police then charged a Harrisburg woman with aggravated cruelty to animals after the dog was reportedly found without life-sustaining care. Images described by officials suggest severe neglect and prolonged suffering.
Details shared by investigators seem to indicate the dog’s body condition reflected starvation or long-term deprivation. The carcass was reportedly located in a basement area, with no evident access to clean water or adequate food. Such facts, if proven, would point to sustained neglect that ended in death.
Accountability matters here. Reported cruelty of this nature signals risk for other animals in that household and community. A strong prosecutorial response helps deter repeat harm and affirms that deprivation and abandonment will face real consequences. This case warrants meaningful penalties, mandatory counseling, restitution for costs, and a lengthy ban on owning or keeping animals upon conviction.
PETITION LETTER:
District Attorney Chardo,
Reports from your county indicate probation officers discovered an emaciated pit bull’s body in a basement during a home visit, and police subsequently filed an aggravated cruelty charge. The described condition of the dog reportedly reflects prolonged deprivation and suffering.
We respectfully urge your office to pursue the strongest charges and penalties supported by evidence. Please seek a sentence that reflects the gravity of the reported neglect, along with mandatory counseling, restitution, and a lengthy prohibition on animal ownership upon conviction.
A clear, firm outcome can deter future abuse and protect vulnerable animals. Thank you for prioritizing cases where reported cruelty ends in needless death.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Stephen Mahoney
