Target: Chemung County District Attorney Weeden A. Wetmore
Goal: Secure the maximum lawful sentence, lifetime animal-ownership ban, restitution, and mandated counseling in the case where a dog was allegedly force-fed coins and thumbtacks.
Authorities charged three individuals after an investigation alleged a small dog was force-fed coins and thumbtacks over several months. Deputies also reportedly removed three dogs from the property for safety and care. One defendant has been charged with aggravated cruelty to animals, while two others were charged with overdriving, torturing and injuring animals, and failure to provide proper sustenance.
Case records indicate this alleged cruelty was not an isolated moment but repeated across time, with multiple animals involved. Investigators described filthy conditions and seized the dogs under the direction of county authorities. Such conduct, if proven, reflects extreme disregard for life and raises grave concerns about future risk to animals.
Appropriate accountability is essential to protect animals and deter copycats. Prosecutors can seek the stiffest penalties allowed by law, a permanent prohibition on owning or controlling animals, restitution for veterinary and shelter costs, and psychological evaluation with treatment. This petition urges firm prosecution and sentencing advocacy that reflects the severity of the alleged acts and prioritizes the long-term safety of animals.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear District Attorney Wetmore,
We respectfully urge your office to pursue the strongest possible outcome in the case arising from reports that a small dog was force-fed coins and thumbtacks and that additional animals were kept in harmful conditions. One defendant faces a felony aggravated-cruelty charge and two others face misdemeanor counts related to overdriving, torturing and injuring animals, and failure to provide sustenance.
These allegations describe sustained and extreme suffering, not a fleeting lapse. If the evidence supports the charges, we ask that you seek the maximum lawful sentence and advocate for a lifetime ban on owning or controlling animals, along with strict no-contact conditions. We further urge pursuit of full restitution for veterinary and shelter care, mandated psychological evaluation and treatment, and any additional court-ordered safeguards that reduce risk to animals.
A visible, decisive outcome would honor the victims, reinforce community standards, and deter future abuse. Thank you for prioritizing cases where those without a voice depend on the justice system for protection.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Soumyadip Adak
