Target: Brittany Grome Antonacci, District Attorney, Cayuga County, New York
Goal: Seek maximum lawful sentences, lifetime animal-ownership bans, and restitution after dogs were reportedly starved, abandoned, and one left so confined her paws became permanently deformed.
Authorities reportedly uncovered a months-long pattern of cruelty. Prosecutors say two dogs were abandoned entirely while a third was confined in a crate for so long that her paws became permanently deformed. Food and care were reportedly withheld, which left this dog emaciated and injured. Officials describe inflammation, painful wounds, and lasting disfigurement that reflect prolonged suffering.
This case reportedly spans about 16 months. Investigators and prosecutors say the animals endured relentless confinement, with one dog locked in a crate without chances to run, stretch, or move. The same accounts say she was denied adequate food and shed weight rapidly. Two defendants now stand accused of aggravated cruelty, overdriving and torturing animals, abandonment, and failing to provide food and water.
Strong sentencing deters repeat harm. A visible, proportionate outcome can protect animals and neighbors, especially when cruelty is allegedly prolonged. Courts should consider lifetime animal-ownership bans, counseling where appropriate, no-contact conditions, and unannounced compliance checks. Restitution should repay veterinary care, boarding, and investigation costs. This petition urges prosecutors to seek the maximum penalties supported by law.
PETITION LETTER:
District Attorney Grome Antonacci,
Reports describe dogs starved, abandoned, and one confined in a crate for such a sustained period that her paws became permanently deformed. Authorities say injuries and emaciation followed. Two defendants have been charged with aggravated cruelty, abandonment, and related offenses.
We respectfully urge your office to pursue every charge supported by the evidence and to seek maximum lawful sentences at disposition. Please request lifetime prohibitions on owning, keeping, breeding, or supervising animals, along with no-contact orders and unannounced compliance checks that verify adherence. Appropriate counseling and treatment conditions can reduce recidivism while centering victim protection.
We also ask that you seek full restitution for veterinary treatment, rehabilitation, sheltering, and public costs. A firm, transparent outcome will affirm that prolonged neglect and cruelty meet serious consequences in Cayuga County.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Esra Afşar
