There are times when our judicial system can be as baffling as it is maddening. While we often speak highly of the many court clerks, prosecutors, and judges we have engaged with while pursuing justice for animal victims, this is a case that can only elicit outrage due to a very disappointing outcome.

Tritton Hatton kicked and slammed his partner's dog in the hall and elevator of a Bronx, New York apartment complex. His unhinged abuse of a small helpless dog was evidenced on multiple security cameras. He knew there were cameras and it seems that he could not have cared less.

You may have been one of the 14,572 In Defense of Animals supporters who signed our alert to the prosecutor. Our Justice for Animals campaign stayed on top of court proceedings despite much frustration. The court was not forthcoming with information on hearings, motions, and like events. 

With disgust, we learned that Tritton Hatton only pled guilty to one misdemeanor charge, and he was subsequently conditionally discharged. The only good outcomes were that he was banned from engaging with any animals for 10 years and also he must register as an abuser on New York's animal abuse registry. What happened to any fines or court fees, jail time, and anger management?

This was very likely the toothless outcome of a plea deal, which should not have been offered. The address of the prosecutor is provided below if you would like to write to the court with your thoughts on allowing Tritton Hatton to escape meaningful prosecution.

Letters to the DA:

District Attorney Darcel Clark
198 E 161 Street
Bronx, New York 10451

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