Target: Carla Rodriguez, District Attorney, Sonoma County, California
Goal: Seek maximum penalties, an animal-ownership ban, and full restitution after reports that a dog was allegedly swung by its legs, squeezed with significant force, and taken without permission.
A concerned caller reportedly described a woman hitting and violently swinging a dog by its legs. Responding officers allegedly then saw the woman squeeze the dog with significant force. When police intervened she allegedly resisted. Police further allege the dog had been taken from its owner without consent. Animal control placed the dog in care for evaluation and reunification.
Such handling can reportedly cause fractures, internal injury, and lasting fear. Even brief violent swinging allegedly inflicts extreme distress. Squeezing an animal with significant force can apparently restrict breathing. These details paint a scene of cruelty that demands a strong, measured legal response grounded in facts.
Accountability protects animals and communities. Prosecutors should reportedly pursue every supported charge, counted per victimized animal where applicable. Sentencing should seek maximum lawful penalties, a long animal-ownership ban, mandatory counseling where appropriate, compliance checks that bar contact with animals, and restitution that covers veterinary and shelter costs. Anything less signals tolerance for violence against defenseless companions.
PETITION LETTER:
District Attorney Rodriguez,
We are alarmed by reports that a dog was allegedly swung by its legs and then squeezed with significant force. Officers who responded reportedly observed the squeezing. The suspect allegedly resisted arrest. Police further allege the dog had been taken without the owner’s permission, while animal control now safeguards the animal.
We respectfully urge your office to pursue every charge supported by evidence and to seek maximum penalties at sentencing. Please request a lengthy prohibition on owning or supervising animals, counseling when indicated, and probation conditions that include unannounced compliance checks with no-contact terms.
We also ask that the court order restitution for veterinary exams, treatment, and sheltering. Visible accountability here will deter future abuse and affirm that cruelty toward animals carries serious consequences.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Cali Lifer
