Target: Jacob Putman, Criminal District Attorney of Smith County, Texas
Goal: Seek maximum lawful penalties, lifetime animal bans, and full restitution in the reported large-scale dog neglect and suspected dogfighting case involving dozens of injured dogs.
Authorities reportedly uncovered a grim scene during a 2024 investigation: 59 dogs with wounds, scars consistent with fighting, and signs of malnourishment, many confined in cages or on chains. Arrest records further indicate that equipment linked to dogfighting—such as treadmills modified for dogs, bite sticks, weighted collars, and a structure appearing to be a fighting arena—was found on the property. These details, as reported, point to prolonged suffering and systemic cruelty that demand a comprehensive prosecutorial response.
According to court filings and local reports, one defendant has pleaded guilty to animal cruelty while other charges were dismissed; another individual tied to the case had animal-cruelty and dogfighting counts dismissed and instead pleaded guilty to a separate narcotics offense. While prosecutors cited evidentiary limits regarding some counts, the scale and severity of the reportedly discovered conditions underscore the need for continued, vigorous action to secure accountability for any parties who can lawfully be charged.
To protect the public and animals alike, this case merits aggressive follow-through. Prosecutors should seek the strongest permissible sentences upon conviction, long-term or lifetime bans on animal ownership, mental health evaluations where appropriate, and restitution to cover medical care and sheltering costs for the victimized dogs. If additional admissible evidence emerges, charges should be promptly refiled. Justice for the dogs allegedly forced to endure pain and deprivation cannot be left incomplete.
PETITION LETTER:
District Attorney Putman,
Reports from a 2024 investigation describe a harrowing scene: 59 dogs found with scars consistent with fighting, visible injuries, and apparent malnourishment, many kept in cages or on chains. Arrest affidavits further reference items associated with organized dogfighting, including modified treadmills, bite sticks, weighted collars, and what appeared to be a fighting arena. These facts, as reported, depict extensive, prolonged suffering.
We appreciate that prosecutors must weigh evidentiary standards. Still, given the severity of the allegedly uncovered conditions, we respectfully urge your office to pursue maximum lawful penalties for any defendants who can be charged and convicted, including long-term or lifetime prohibitions on owning or residing with animals, mandated counseling where appropriate, and full restitution to cover veterinary care and shelter costs. If new admissible evidence becomes available against any involved parties, please consider refiling appropriate charges without delay.
This case, as described, reflects a broader public-safety concern, since organized cruelty correlates with other forms of violence. We urge you to send a clear, deterrent message that large-scale neglect and suspected dogfighting will be met with decisive action and meaningful consequences.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Alexas Fotos
