Many of you have been following the trial of former Los Angeles assistant fire chief Glynn Johnson on charges of animal cruelty. He was convicted of beating a puppy so badly that it had to be euthanized. The charge, a felony in California, brings a potential sentence of 4 years in prison. Well, yestrday the judge handed down his sentence: 90 days of "weekend jail" and three years of probation! It makes me sad and angry that such acts are taken so lightly. I believe that how we treat animals shows who we are on the inside: gentle, or harsh, loving or cruel, merciful or malignant. This guy is a certified jerk in my personal opinion and I believe that his own life will be punishment for his deeds. There is still more people can do. Visit the familys website at www.justice4karley.com and learn about their efforts to change animal cruelty laws.

Check HERE for the full story

1/26/2010**UPDATE**

Today the jury reached their verdict: GUILTY! After deliberating for a little more than 1-hour, they determined that Glynn Johnson was guilty of felony animal cruelty. Sentencing date is set for March 8th.  Justice has come half-way, we have a conviction. Now we need a tough sentence. Lets hope the judge gives him the maximum sentence of 4 years and 4 months. Even that does not seem like enough.

Those of you who know Celeste and I understand that we are big animal lovers. In particular, our dogs are very close to our hearts. When I saw Li'l Smokey hurt for the first time I didn't see a bear, but a lost an injured puppy in need of someone to care for him.

Those of you who live outside of California may not know the story of Karly, a six month old shephard mix puppy who was beaten to death in the fall of 2008. That anyone would hurt or kill an animal should be seen as a shocking crime. That the perpetrator was a Los Angeles Assistant Fire Chief makes this story all the more strange and horrible. How someone who is charged with defending the lives of people could turn to murder is very hard for me to comprehend.

Karleys family has been fighting since the beginning to bring this man to justice. After more than a year of wrangling and attempts by the accused to delay the trial, his case will finally go to trial starting today. If you would, please take the time to visit their website and offer your support and comfort during this difficult time. The actual trial is sure to bring back many painful memories for the people who loved Karly.

WARNING. The details of this story are emotionally charged. I have been deeply effected by this story. Please be warned, don't click the link unless you are ready for some serious tears and righteous outrage.

Visit their website

Here is another article on the story

"The Alameda County District Attorney's Office is set to decide Monday whether to file charges against an Alameda police K-9 officer whose dog died after he allegedly left it unattended while he was on duty."

See the full story below:

http://www.insidebayarea.com/bay-area-living/ci_12465291

http://www.ksby.com/Global/story.asp?S=10435094

How could you "forget" that your partner was locked in a hot car? This looks like a serious case of gross negligence. I couldn't forget about my dog being in the car for 5 minutes, let alone three hours. I seriously hope the DA takes a good look into this case. I will try to post more info if I can get anything.

Update on Friday, May 29, 2009 at 8:20AM by Adam

An Additional Thought:

Police dogs would receive the same protection as a service dog would under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The officer could have brought the dog into the training facility under any circumstance. This appears to be a case of bad judgement. Of course, something could come out to change my mind but right now, it looks pretty clear to me.

Update on Monday, June 1, 2009 at 1:16PM by Adam

Officer will not be held responsible for death of his partner. Investigation still ongoing!

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/06/01/BALD17UQ44.DTL&type=printable