On June 10, 2014, hundreds of animal lovers gathered outside the Van Nuys courtroom in California to show their support for Indy, a pit bull discovered with third-degree burns over half his body on Independence weekend 2013. They gathered outside the court house because 41-year-old Carlos Duarte, the man arrested and charged for Indy’s animal abuse, appeared in court for a preliminary hearing. The group not only showed support for Indy, but they demanded justice for the innocent pet.
Lt. Mark Stanmeyer says the officers will begin a new training session on the subject in September, but in an email said “but right now we are focused on homicides and non-fatal shootings.”
“We’re very pleased. I’ve seen a lot of the evidence in this case, and from what I’ve seen, they definitely made the right decision,” said attorney Alyson Antoon. “The evidence was overwhelming.”
“We will fight at the next legislative session to increase the punishment range for this offense to better protect these animals and all citizens of Harris County,” attorney Devon Anderson said.
Justice officials say the defendants maintained and operated a dogfight gambling enterprise named the 229 Boys Kennels Inc. from April 2006 to April 2010.
“Obviously we were disappointed that the court dismissed the suppression motion, but we’ll see what happens next,” said Terry Hughes who is Mathis’ lawyer.
“I can’t go to the grocery store without being recognized, pointed at, laughed at,” Dooley whined. “Can't pay my water bill without hearing my name, saying ‘There’s the sorry cop that killed the dog.’”
According to the Weld County Sheriff’s Office, Peck has been investigated many times in several other jurisdictions, including both California and Wyoming. All of the investigations revolve around allegations of animal hoarding, neglect and abuse.
Last month, Michael Davis was charged with 27 counts of felony animal fighting. Metro police were at his home on Pewitt Road to remove 27 pit bulls and one bulldog on Thursday. The 27 felony charges have been passed up to the Davidson County grand jury for a hearing.
