Target: Thomas (Tom) Leiden, District Attorney of Somerset County, Pennsylvania
Goal: Secure full prosecution after dogs were allegedly starved, denied water and shelter in freezing temperatures.
A deeply disturbing situation has emerged in which multiple dogs were allegedly kept tied outside in frigid temperatures without adequate shelter, food, or water. According to a criminal complaint, three adult dogs were left outdoors in temperatures below 10 degrees, while several puppies were confined inside a crate and denied sustenance necessary for survival. Reports further indicate that five of the puppies died as a result of these living conditions, raising urgent concern about prolonged suffering.
Investigators responding to the residence allegedly discovered severely underweight adult dogs, including a pit bull and two labradoodles whose ribs, spine, and hips were protruding, conditions that suggested extended deprivation. Additional statements in the complaint characterized the alleged conduct as fitting definitions of torture and serious bodily injury due to prolonged deprivation and the deaths of the puppies. Authorities have filed multiple felony charges connected to alleged aggravated cruelty to animals, and legal proceedings are ongoing.
Acts involving starvation, exposure to freezing temperatures, and the deaths of defenseless animals demand decisive legal accountability. Strong prosecution where evidence supports the allegations is essential to protect vulnerable animals, deter future cruelty, and uphold the integrity of animal protection laws. This petition therefore calls for full legal enforcement and meaningful penalties consistent with the severity of the alleged harm.
PETITION LETTER:
The DA Leiden,
We write to express grave concern regarding reports that several dogs were kept outdoors in freezing temperatures without shelter, food, or water, while puppies were confined in a crate and denied basic sustenance. Available accounts reportedly indicate that five puppies died under these conditions and that surviving adult dogs were found severely underweight with visible ribs and bones.
Authorities have filed multiple felony charges alleging aggravated cruelty, torture, and serious bodily injury, and court proceedings are underway. Because the alleged conduct involves prolonged deprivation, freezing exposure, and the reported deaths of young animals, the matter raises urgent concerns about enforcement of animal protection laws and prevention of further harm.
We respectfully urge your office to pursue this case to the fullest extent permitted by law and to seek penalties that reflect the severity of the alleged suffering. Strong legal action is essential to protect animals, reinforce accountability, and deter future cruelty.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Shanna Dugan
