In Defense of Animals’ supporters often make a profound impact on the prosecution and sentencing of animal abusers — and now you’re helping get justice for George who was cruelly dragged to his death in Mississippi. 

In May, our Justice for Animals Senior Campaigner Doll Stanley and Crystal Springs Mayor Sally Garland met with District Attorney Daniella Shorter and her staff. She oversees the 22nd district in Mississippi which includes Claiborne, Copiah, and Jefferson counties. We met to present our letter with more than 17,000 In Defense of Animals supporters’ signatures seeking a no-deal prosecution for Daniel Berthelette, who killed his neighbor’s dog, George, by dragging him to death behind his truck. Amazingly, Shorter received the file the day before our meeting.

Stanley and Garland shared the horror of what George experienced and the brutal impact on witnesses and George’s family, including their son who was left processing the loss of his dog that will have a permanent impact on his life.

Shorter read our letter aloud, turned to us, and stated, “I’m an animal lover, and I will be handling this case personally.”

We couldn’t have possibly received a better response to our efforts to see Berthelette prosecuted and sentenced to the fullest extent of the law. Anyone who could wrap a wire around a dog’s neck, drag him for miles, stop to see if he was dead so he could dislodge him from his bumper, and thwart the help of a witness who could hear George moaning must be held accountable.

Berthelette was so committed to the dastardly act that he told a witness, “I hate that dog,” got back in his truck, and dragged George to the Crystal Springs city dumpsters, where city employees were too astounded to do anything but tell him he could not put George in a dumpster.

The investigation details, arrest, and probable cause hearing are too upsetting to repeat. We take comfort in knowing that Berthelette will not escape justice and thank you for supporting our mission for justice for the animals who fall victim to those who cause harm without remorse. 

You can find ways to help more animals like George by visiting our Justice for Animals campaign.