This alert is no longer active, but here for reference. Animals still need your help.

In March 2024, three Kern County deputies were involved in a heinous act of cruelty when a cat was used for target practice at a Bakersfield shooting range. Shockingly, minimal disciplinary action was taken, and the deputies were put back on duty. This is unacceptable. We need your help to demand real accountability and legal consequences for this blatant act of violence.

On March 27, 2024, at the Sheriff's Pistol Range in Hart Park, Bakersfield, two deputies opened fire on a defenseless cat while a third watched. When a witness bravely confronted them, one deputy callously responded, "It was damaging the property," justifying the unjustifiable.
 

Despite confirming the incident, Sheriff Donny Youngblood has refused to disclose details of the disciplinary actions taken, citing the Peace Officers' Bill of Rights. Animal advocates, including Barbara Hays, President of The Cat People, are appalled: “This unprovoked killing is a disgrace to the sheriff's department and shows a deep disregard for life.”

Despite overwhelming community outrage and a viral video capturing the confrontation, no significant actions have been taken beyond internal discipline. We must hold these deputies accountable under California Penal Code § 597 PC, which addresses animal cruelty and allows for felony charges and up to three years in prison.

Letter to Decision Maker(s) for reference:

Subject: Urgent: Prosecute Deputies for the Cruel Killing of a Cat

I am outraged by the recent act of cruelty committed by Kern County deputies who used a defenseless cat for target practice at the Hart Park shooting range. This was not only a shocking display of violence but a clear violation of California Penal Code § 597 PC, which prohibits malicious harm or killing of animals.

While Sheriff Youngblood confirmed the incident, the lack of transparency and insufficient disciplinary measures are deeply concerning. These deputies must be prosecuted under the full extent of the law for this serious crime. Allowing them to return to duty with minimal consequences sends the dangerous message that our community fails to value life and that it condones cruelty.

I urge you to act swiftly to ensure justice is served. Internal discipline alone cannot substitute for real legal action. Please advocate for the prosecution of these deputies to uphold the principles of accountability and compassion that our society must stand for.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I, along with countless animal advocates, am closely watching and expecting justice.

Sincerely,

Signed

This alert is no longer active, but here for reference. Animals still need your help.