PRESS RELEASE

New Orleans Man Convicted of Animal Cruelty
Cannot Own Animals for Length of Sentence

NEW ORLEANS (2/6/07) – Jamerson Johnson, New Orleans, was convicted today on one count of animal cruelty charges following an August 5, 2005 arrest after Louisiana SPCA humane officers saw Johnson walking a severely emaciated pit bull. As part of his sentence, Johnson has been ordered not to own, care for or control any animal, including fowl, during his sentence period.

The pit bull, unable even to stand after being rescued by humane officers, also had puncture type wounds on its body and had to be euthanized later that day due to his weakened, emaciated condition.

In August 2005, following his arrest, Johnson was charged with three counts of animal cruelty. Today’s conviction was on one count of misdemeanor animal cruelty against the pit bull, pictured below. Johnson’s sentence also includes 40 hours of community service, 90 days suspended jail time, one-year inactive probation, and a $150 fine plus court costs.

Kathryn Destreza, Director of Humane Law Enforcement for the LA/SPCA, applauded the ruling and the recognition by those in the legal system that animal cruelty is a serious crime. “Animal cruelty convictions are hard won battles and acts of cruelty, especially intentional cruelty such as what we saw in the Jones case, are deplorable. That our criminal justice sentence recognizes this is a win for animals and a step in the right direction to improving the lives of companion animals,” said Destreza.

To report animal cruelty, contact the LA/SPCA at 504-368-5191, ext. 100. The public can also report suspected cruelty or request an investigation on the LA/SPCA’s website at: http://www.la-spca.org/forms/investigation_request.htm.

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The Louisiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is an organization devoted to improving the lives of animals and eliminating the homelessness, neglect and abuse that signal animal suffering. Chartered in 1888, our history has been paved with an understanding that only through an improved human-animal ethic can we better the lives of companion animals and that of our community. Our programs and services are infused with the highest standards of care and compassion.

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