Punish Kennel Worker Accused of Fatally Kicking Dog in the Kidney

Target: Leesa Manion, King County Prosecuting Attorney, Washington

Goal: Seek maximum lawful penalties, a long animal-possession ban, mandated counseling, and restitution for the reportedly brutal killing of a boarded dog.

Authorities opened a felony animal cruelty case after a boarding kennel employee was apparently captured on surveillance striking a dog named Mitch, then waiting over an hour before transport for emergency care. Charging records and clinic accounts describe kicks and punches as the dog tried hiding under a table, followed by delay while Mitch lay critically injured. Veterinary staff say they found internal bleeding with suspected kidney damage, and despite repeated CPR attempts, Mitch could not be revived.

Witness statements cited in case files reportedly include an admission that he kicked the dog, alongside video that apparently shows pursuit and blows delivered after a minor mishap in the facility. The animal’s suffering, as reported, included both blunt-force trauma and a dangerous lag in treatment. A family expecting a routine pickup instead received a call from an emergency clinic about a dog beyond saving.

Community safety intersects with animal safety. Research consistently links violence toward animals with broader risks. A case that involves intentional strikes, delay in care, and a boarded companion animal’s death merits serious consequences. Prosecutors can seek strong sentencing, long bans on owning or accessing animals, counseling tailored for anger and cruelty offenses, and full restitution for veterinary costs. Justice here should deter copycats and reinforce duty of care standards across kennels. Please pursue the strongest lawful outcome.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Prosecutor Manion,

We urge your office to pursue the strongest lawful penalties available in the case of a dog kennel worker who is reported to have fatally kicked a dog named Mitch. Surveillance footage seemingly shows a staffer kicking and punching the dog as he tried hiding, then waiting more than an hour before transport for emergency care. Clinic staff reportedly found internal bleeding and suspected kidney injury, and despite repeated efforts Mitch could not be revived.

This was not an unavoidable accident, according to the record. Charging documents and witness accounts describe deliberate blows, followed by a delay that likely worsened suffering. The family of Mitch entrusted their companion to a paid caregiver. That trust was reportedly broken in a manner both cruel and dangerous.

Please seek a sentence that reflects the seriousness of the conduct, including long probation terms with no contact with animals, mandated counseling, and restitution. We also ask you to request no-animal conditions while the case proceeds. Firm action here can deter future harm, promote accountability within animal-care businesses, and honor Mitch’s memory with meaningful justice.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo credit: KarinaHolosko