Target: Gerina D. Whethers, Commonwealth’s Attorney, Jefferson County, Kentucky
Goal: Secure the maximum felony sentence, permanent animal-ownership ban, and mandatory counseling for the man who reportedly killed a puppy by violently swinging and hurling her.
A tiny puppy reportedly endured unimaginable terror when she was grabbed, swung around by her neck, and flung across a room during a domestic argument. Witnesses and responding officers claim the defenseless animal struck a glass table with such force that she died en route to emergency care. Louisville Metro Police soon arrested a suspect, yet bond was set at only $10,000 and a not-guilty plea entered.
This alleged brutality occurred barely a year after Ethan’s Law elevated first-offense animal torture to a felony in Kentucky. Despite this tougher statute, the state still ranks near the bottom nationally for animal-protection laws. Allowing a plea bargain or lenient sentence in a case so seemingly cruel would undermine hard-won progress and send a dangerous message that companion animals remain disposable.
Felony charges mean little without vigorous prosecution and a punishment that fits the crime. Sign below to demand a maximum prison term, lifelong prohibition on owning animals, and compulsory psychological intervention are both to honor the puppy’s life and to deter future violence toward vulnerable beings.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Commonwealth’s Attorney Whethers,
Louisville Metro Police have charged Demetrius Hebert with felony torture after he reportedly swung a young puppy by the neck and threw the animal into a glass table during a dispute. The puppy died before veterinarians could attempt treatment.
These alleged actions demonstrate extreme violence and disregard for life. Research consistently links such deliberate cruelty to a higher risk of future harm toward both animals and people. Ethan’s Law was enacted to ensure first-time offenders face real consequences; a minimal bond and potential plea deal would erode the statute’s intent.
We urge your office to pursue the strongest sentence available, including substantial incarceration, a lifetime ban on possessing animals, and mandatory counselling. Kentucky’s commitment to protecting animals—and by extension public safety—depends on decisive action in cases like this.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: latteda
