Target: Nathan J. Hochman, District Attorney, Los Angeles County, California
Goal: Seek substantial punishment and animal possession restrictions upon conviction for allegedly leaving hundreds of rescue animals starving, injured, and suffering fecal burns.
Rescue should mean a clean bed, a full bowl, and treatment when an animal hurts. At Rock ‘N’ Pawz, more than 300 animals were allegedly kept in filthy confinement, with animals reportedly suffering starvation, dehydration, untreated wounds, and painful urine and fecal burns. Investigators also allege that a cat found dead had suffered starvation and dehydration.
Operator Christine De Anda faces 35 felony and misdemeanor charges, including 12 felony animal cruelty counts and two felony counts of grand theft of labor. Prosecutors allege she continued accepting animals despite repeated warnings and citations. Animal control officials describe animals saturated with excrement and confined in crates too small to lie comfortably. The charges remain allegations, not findings of guilt.
Every animal in this case deserves individual consideration, not anonymity within a staggering total. A prosecution should establish the duration and consequences of any proven neglect and identify safeguards against recurrence. Urge the district attorney to pursue supported charges and seek substantial penalties and enforceable animal possession restrictions upon conviction.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear District Attorney Hochman,
Behind the number 300 are individual animals whose needs deserve attention. The allegations concerning Rock ‘N’ Pawz describe prolonged deprivation, untreated injuries and illnesses, and painful burns caused by contact with urine and feces. We ask your office to ensure that the severity of each substantiated injury is fully represented in the prosecution.
Please preserve veterinary examinations, photographs, inspection records, and testimony establishing who controlled the animals’ care. Examine the alleged continuation of harmful conditions after warnings, and present evidence of duration and responsibility where supported. Coordinate with animal care authorities so that treatment and safe placement continue while proceedings move forward.
If guilt is established, seek a substantial sentence proportionate to the proven suffering, together with legally available restrictions on owning, possessing, or caring for animals. Please pursue lasting accountability that recognizes each animal’s experience and helps protect others from similar harm.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: King of Hearts
