Target: Ryan Sayers, District Attorney of Clearfield County, Pennsylvania
Goal: Seek the maximum lawful penalties, a long-term ban on animal ownership, court-ordered counseling, and full restitution in reported case of a Great Dane weighing 77.6 pounds and two cats found emaciated and flea-infested.
Authorities seized a Great Dane named Stella who was reportedly so weak she could not stand and weighed just 77.6 pounds, with vertebrae, ribs, and pelvis visibly protruding. Two cats in the same residence were allegedly underweight, flea-infested, and covered in visible scabs. These disturbing details emerged after a welfare check and a search warrant were executed, according to the criminal complaint.
The case follows earlier warnings and an earlier neglect case involving different dogs, during which officials had directed the defendant to obtain veterinary care. Investigators now allege prolonged neglect, noting Stella’s minimal muscle mass and “bunny hopping” to move, while the cats were apparently suffering from untreated parasitism and poor body condition. The defendant has been charged with felony aggravated cruelty to animals causing serious bodily injury or death, as well as misdemeanor cruelty and neglect.
Protecting vulnerable animals requires robust enforcement. Alleged starvation, untreated illness, and repeat noncompliance demand strong prosecutorial action that both deters future cruelty and funds the victims’ recovery. This petition urges the District Attorney to pursue the maximum lawful penalties, a long-term prohibition on animal ownership, mandatory psychological evaluation and treatment, and restitution for veterinary and shelter costs.
PETITION LETTER:
District Attorney Sayers,
The public is deeply troubled by reports that a Great Dane named Stella was found unable to stand and weighing 77.6 pounds, with bones starkly visible, and that two cats in the same home were emaciated, flea-infested, and covered in scabs. These animals, according to official accounts, appeared to suffer from prolonged neglect and lack of basic veterinary care. This matter also follows prior warnings and an earlier neglect case, suggesting a troubling pattern.
We respectfully urge your office to seek the maximum lawful penalties on all counts, along with a long-term ban on animal ownership, mandated psychological evaluation and treatment, and full restitution to the SPCA and treating veterinarians. Firm, comprehensive accountability here could help prevent future suffering and reinforce that prolonged neglect will not be tolerated.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Lilly M
