Target: Brian Thomas Holohan, Commonwealth’s Attorney of Roanoke County, Virginia
Goal: Seek the maximum legally permissible penalties, an animal-ownership ban, counseling, and restitution in the case where a dog was allegedly found with a maggot-infested head wound and was later euthanized.
Authorities reportedly charged a woman with misdemeanor animal cruelty after a dog was found in such dire condition that maggots were allegedly emerging from a wound on the animal’s head. According to local reporting, the dog had to be euthanized following emergency assessment, and the incident has sparked public outrage. While protests have focused attention, the core issue remains the dog’s apparent suffering and the need for accountability through the courts.
News coverage indicates the case has prompted demonstrations and heated commentary, but the legal process—rather than public threats or harassment—must determine responsibility and consequences. Investigators reportedly documented the dog’s condition and brought charges, citing evidence consistent with severe neglect. The animal’s death underscores the gravity of the alleged harm.
Animal-cruelty cases, when proven, warrant strong and consistent enforcement. Meaningful outcomes can include the maximum fine and jail time allowed by law, a lengthy or permanent prohibition on owning or caring for animals, mandatory psychological evaluation and counseling, and restitution for veterinary and shelter costs. Sign below to demand prosecutors pursue a sentence that reflects the seriousness of the alleged cruelty and help prevent future suffering.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Commonwealth’s Attorney Holohan,
We are writing regarding reports that a dog was discovered with a maggot-infested head wound and later euthanized—an incident that has led to a misdemeanor animal-cruelty charge. The publicly reported facts suggest prolonged suffering and severe neglect. While all defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty, the alleged condition of this animal calls for a vigorous and thorough prosecution.
If the evidence supports a conviction, we respectfully urge your office to seek the strongest penalties available under Virginia law. That should include meaningful jail time or probation terms as appropriate, substantial fines, a long-term or lifetime ban on animal ownership, mandatory counseling or evaluation, and restitution for veterinary and shelter expenses. Such conditions can help protect other animals and encourage rehabilitation where possible.
Thank you for prioritizing animal-cruelty cases and, when warranted by the evidence, ensuring that sentences reflect the seriousness of the harm. A clear, consistent prosecutorial stance can deter future abuses and honor the life of the dog who, according to reports, suffered so gravely.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Tima Miroshnichenko
