Target: R. Andrew Murra, District Attorney of Henderson County, North Carolina
Goal: Prosecute to the fullest extent of the law two individuals charged with felony animal cruelty after an extremely emaciated dog was allegedly found tied to a tree with no means of escape or relief.
A welfare check call reportedly led animal enforcement officers to a devastating discovery: an extremely emaciated dog tied to a tree, in a condition so alarming that she was immediately removed and taken to a veterinarian for emergency treatment and care. According to the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office, an investigation determined that two individuals arrested — both now charged with felony animal cruelty — were responsible for the dog and her condition. A dog tied to a tree has no ability to seek food, water, or help. She is entirely dependent on whoever placed her there, and what investigators reportedly found suggests that dependency was catastrophically betrayed.
Felony animal cruelty charges in North Carolina are reserved for the most serious cases of deliberate mistreatment. The condition of this dog, described as extreme emaciation, reflects what authorities believe was a sustained and serious failure of care. Both accused are currently being held at the Henderson County Detention Center.
North Carolina law provides criminal penalties for felony animal cruelty, and the Henderson County District Attorney’s Office is being urged to pursue this case with the full force those statutes allow. A dog was seeming tied to a tree, wasting away, and had no way to call for help. The justice system must now speak for her.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear DA Murra,
We are writing to urge your office to pursue the maximum penalties available under North Carolina law against the two individuals charged with felony animal cruelty following the alleged discovery of an extremely emaciated dog tied to a tree during a welfare check in Henderson County. According to the sheriff’s office, animal enforcement officers found the dog in a condition so severe that she was immediately taken into custody and brought to a veterinarian. An investigation determined that both accused were responsible for the dog, and both now face felony charges.
A dog tied to a tree is completely helpless and unable to find food, seek water, or move to safety. The extreme emaciation reportedly observed by officers may suggest that this animal endured prolonged deprivation while tethered.
We respectfully urge your office to pursue conviction and the maximum available sentencing on the felony animal cruelty charges if the alleged wrongdoing is proven in court.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Nithin Shastri
