A man who beat his neighbor’s chihuahua to death with a shovel will spend just 30 days in jail. Despite a jury finding Kenneth McGaughey guilty of felony animal cruelty for the brutal killing of Chiquilin, the court imposed a sentence that many believe fails to reflect the severity of the crime.

On February 10, 2026, Maricopa County Superior Court Commissioner Therese Gantz sentenced McGaughey to just 30 days in jail and three years of probation, despite a jury finding him guilty of felony animal cruelty after trial.

The punishment falls far short of the consequences allowed under Arizona law for such a brutal crime.

Although only one felony count was filed, McGaughey struck the terrified dog multiple times with a shovel, leaving Chiquilin so gravely injured that he had to be euthanized. Under Arizona law, this offense qualifies as a Class 5 felony, which carries a potential sentence of up to 2.5 years in prison and fines of up to $150,000.

In Defense of Animals urged prosecutors to pursue the strongest penalties available under the law. We also called for a permanent prohibition on McGaughey having contact with animals, along with a court-ordered psychological evaluation and any necessary treatment before his release. Anything less fails to reflect the severity of this deliberate act of cruelty.

13,747 supporters of In Defense of Animals raised their voices for Chiquilin by signing our petition to Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell, urging full prosecution, conviction, and meaningful consequences in this case. We are deeply grateful to everyone who took action to demand justice and stand up for animals who cannot speak for themselves.

What Happened to Chiquilin

On April 18, 2025, Chiquilin wandered into McGaughey’s yard, which was enclosed by a wall but not secured with a gate.

What happened next was captured on surveillance video.

The footage showed McGaughey repeatedly slamming a shovel downward before throwing Chiquilin’s body back over the wall as if he were garbage.

A neighbor later informed Chiquilin’s family that the attack had been recorded. Chiquilin did not survive his injuries.

On April 23, 2025, the Peoria Police Department recommended felony animal cruelty charges, and on May 29, 2025, a Maricopa County grand jury indicted McGaughey.

McGaughey claimed that Chiquilin had his cat in his mouth. Even if true, that claim does not justify the extreme violence that followed. Instead of attempting to separate the animals or calling authorities, McGaughey chose lethal force.

His actions took the life of a small dog and caused immeasurable grief for the family who loved him.

Hold the Court Accountable

Members of the public who believe a judicial officer acted improperly may file a complaint with the Arizona Commission on Judicial Conduct, the independent body responsible for investigating allegations of misconduct by Arizona judges and court commissioners.

Anyone may file a complaint. There is no fee, and you do not need to be a lawyer.

While the Commission cannot change a court ruling, it can investigate judicial conduct and impose discipline if violations of judicial ethics are found.

If you are disturbed by what happened to Chiquilin and believe the handling of this case deserves review, you can submit a complaint asking the Commission to examine the conduct of the judicial officer involved.

Information to Include in Your Complaint

When submitting your complaint, include clear and specific information such as:

Name of judicial officer
Maricopa County Superior Court Commissioner Therese Gantz

Court
Maricopa County Superior Court

Case name
State of Arizona v. Kenneth McGaughey
(Include the case number if you know it.)

Relevant date
February 10, 2026 (sentencing hearing)

Location
Maricopa County, Arizona

Description of concern
Explain in your own words why you believe the handling of the case or the conduct of the judicial officer warrants review. Be factual, specific, and respectful. You may reference the violent killing of Chiquilin and the disparity between the severity of the crime and the sentence imposed.

If available, you may also include links to media coverage or other supporting information about the case.

How to Submit Your Complaint

You can review the instructions and download the official complaint form here:

https://azcjc.azcourts.gov/How-to-File-a-Complaint

After completing the form, you may submit it by email to:

cjc@courts.az.gov

Or mail it to:

Arizona Commission on Judicial Conduct
1501 W. Washington Street, Suite 229
Phoenix, AZ 85007

The Commission reviews every complaint it receives.

Public accountability is an important part of maintaining trust in the justice system and ensuring that cruelty toward animals is treated with the seriousness it deserves.