This alert is no longer active, but here for reference.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

A Mississippi man has been arrested and jailed for sexually assaulting his cousin's pregnant pit bull. Demand maximum penalties in this case! On October 31, 2024, Jackson County Sheriff John Ledbetter announced that Timothy Sanders was arrested at his home the day before and charged with unnatural intercourse and aggravated animal cruelty.

Sanders' cousin reported finding Sanders holding his pregnant pit bull down and raping her.

Jackson County Justice Court Judge Mark Watts denied Sanders' bond. He remains incarcerated. At his arraignment, he was bound over to the grand jury, which has yet to convene.

In Defense of Animals is on top of this case, and our Mississippi Campaigner will communicate with the district attorney and court clerk to bring this case to fruition.

Letter to Decision Maker(s) for reference:

Subject: Maximum Penalties in Bestiality Case

I am writing to support the arrest and prosecution of Joseph Olunwa who was caught on surveillance footage stoning Grayson, a cat who belonged to his neighbor.  
 
Olunwa’s actions resulted in serious injury to Grayson, which veterinary records state included severe damage to his eyes and a broken jaw. The cost for treatment is already over $2,000 and Grayson still needs more intensive care and a jaw surgery estimated to cost $10,000 alone. Olunwa also caused damage to the neighbor's car, which Grayson was hiding under.
 
This disturbing incident has caused severe trauma to the neighbor’s daughter, who was already grieving the loss of her father, and has left them in a living situation where they don’t feel safe. It’s incredibly disappointing that members of the community are left to deal with the aftermath of situations like this, while little is done to address criminal behavior.  
 
Olunwa must be held accountable for the harm he caused. He should be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent for his callous actions, for which he has expressed no remorse, and be mandated to undergo a mental health evaluation and treatment. He should also be mandated to reimburse veterinary costs and not be allowed near animals ever again. 
 
I hope to learn that your office is taking steps to address this incident and will be following up. Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

Signed

This alert is no longer active, but here for reference.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