Trial has begun in the College Station horse killing case - SENTENCED See update pg 4

[Sonesta]

http://www.theeagle.com/local/Man_accused_of_killing_horse

I certainly hope this young man get convicted. This is the horse owned by a fellow COTHer.

UPDATE 10/18 - Peterson was convicted today. Punishment phase starts tomorrow. http://www.theeagle.com/local/FormerA_Mstudentfoundguiltyinhorsekilling

UPDATE 10/19 - The jury gave him 9 months in jail.

[philosoraptor]

That story is bizarre and disturbing. The thing that bothers me the most is that it wasn't just one guy involved in this. It's one thing if one person is mentally ill but to have a friend help out??? sick!

[ChocoMare]

Oh thank God. Finally!

Will be praying for a swift and painful outcome for the boys. And for closure for Darla.

[catknsn]

I don't think anybody was mentally ill here. I think several individuals were intrinsically evil. I hope they are introduced to people more evil than they are in prison, and I hope it ruins their lives.

[CamsMom]

Too bad these boys can't suffer the same fate as the helpless horse. What a couple of scumbags.

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

Two years' incarceration is not sufficient, unless he is forced into becoming someone's prison beyatch every day and every night, continuously. And maybe not even then.

Hope Darla gets some resolution.

[CarouselPony]

that no one called the police when they heard 'the cat screaming' - god, that phrase is going to haunt me - these boys are monsters...

[sabby]

How proud their parents and relatives must be!! Way to go parents...and to think that these pieces of shite will reproduce their own demon spawn someday is frightening.

Stacy

[Oldenburg Mom]

It's often said that to understand all is to forgive all.

I'm sorry, I can do neither. CLEARLY, with the cat issue and the horse, this individual is a time bomb.

[equusrocks]

To think that people can actually live with themselves after doing crap like that to another living creature...Disgusting.

I wonder how people can "support" their loved ones after they've such horrible things. If I did something like that, my parents, family and friends would never speak to me again. And rightly so.

I feel for the owner. How tragic.

[harvestmoon]

How proud their parents and relatives must be!! Way to go parents...and to think that these pieces of shite will reproduce their own demon spawn someday is frightening.

Stacy

Maybe, as part of their punishment, they should be gelded? :D Seriously.

And he was strangling a cat even before he went for the horse? :(

[BlueEyedSorrel]

Words fail me.

The witness, the friend/roommate of the two monsters, is a real piece of work too. I mean, you know your friend choked a cat, hear him talk about killing a horse and think he's "just joking." Sane, normal people don't choke animals or joke about going out in the middle of the night to murder innocent animals. I'm guessing that this is not the first time he exhibited cruel and bizarre behavior. This is not something a person just wakes up one day and decides to do. Really, how many animals (and people) have to die before people realize that they should take cruelty and threats of violence seriously?

Even scarier is that one of the witnesses was supposedly pre-med but didn't call the police because he was afraid of them finding his stash of drugs. Yeah, illegal drugs and involvement in animal cruelty makes a real appealing applicant. Aside from justice for the poor horse and closure for the COTHer who owned her, the other good that could come of this trajedy is if his association with this case puts a permanent black mark on his med school application. The medical profession doesn't need this guy.

Losers all around.

BlueEyedSorrel

[Lori B]

If the news story is in any way accurate, it would seem to be very difficult fore these two miscreants to get out from under these charges. I am hoping that this trial will be fast, well-run (so as to be very hard to appeal), and will produce as severe a verdict against them as can be. If Texas is a state with a reputation for being tough on crime, now's the time for that to be true.

[Sonesta]

I'm actually proud that the prosecutors tried to charge them with a felony in this. Too bad it didn't get approved.

These boys, especially the Peterson boy, have all the ear markings of a future serial killer. Truly frightening.

[sabby]

would have completely disowned me too. The worst thing we ever did was toilet paper someone's house. I never knew anyone who wasn't animal friendly and still don't. Med school my foot!! Not anymore...LOSER. Public record now. And I know that med school fool will not ever hear this or perhaps see this, but just in case..."You are a giant vagina for not calling the police. I invoke the ball shrinking curse on you!! Oh wait a minute, you never had any in the first place".

I didn't know about the poor cat until reading the article:(

Stacy

[flshgordon]

would have completely disowned me too. The worst thing we ever did was toilet paper someone's house. I never knew anyone who wasn't animal friendly and still don't. Med school my foot!! Not anymore...LOSER. Public record now. And I know that med school fool will not ever hear this or perhaps see this, but just in case..."You are a giant vagina for not calling the police. I invoke the ball shrinking curse on you!! Oh wait a minute, you never had any in the first place".

I didn't know about the poor cat until reading the article:(

Stacy

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: I know this is not a laughing matter (far from it!) but I couldn't help myself! I like your ideas WAY better than the COTH explosive diarrea curse....you are so much more creative!

[sabby]

I like the explosive diarrhea curse too! I know that Darla had mentioned before that "someone" was reading previous threads. Read on peeps because there will be more.

Stacy

[J Swan]

Yeah, like I want this type of person to be my doctor.

These people sound like real prizes. Best thing to do is just remove them from society.

Drugs, alcohol, torture, video games. Stabbing a horse in the heart with a broken mallet. Hearing an animal screaming but too selfish to even call the police. Sounds like a fun weekend.

Real princes. Let me know what prison they go to and I'll see if I can arrange for regular gang rapes.

Why do I have the feeling that this isn't the first time the perpetrator has tortured animals???? Hmmmm...... shades of Virginia Tech.

[jackalini]

As an Aggie alumni, this absolutely horrifies me. I hope they rot in jail for as long as is legally possible.

I also hope that this haunts them the rest of their life, in their dreams, in their thoughts, in their community, in their work life. I hope that someone is sure to inform any of their employers, friends and girlfriends what they did, and makes sure they can't ever just walk away from this after they've served their time.

[blue&blond]

What kind of monsters would do such a thing? Really, it's almost beyond comprehension.

What kind of parents did these boys have?

It's horrifying. What they did was evil. Pure evil.

I hope justice is served.

[Tiempo]

I hope these bastards get what they deserve.

There are no words.

I too hope Darla gets some kind of resolution.

[pandorasboxx]

Nauseating. I felt fouled reading the details. And will have to fight the disturbing images from haunting my dreams tonight.

No. This is not the first time this sadist has tortured and killed animals. How many neighborhood animals have disappeared thru the years?

These men need to be kept from society. Or one day it will be a human being and not another poor dumb animal that is slaughtered.

[Appassionato]

I find a part of the story somewhat strange: I nor others that I have heard have been able to get a horse to close his eyelids by just moving them. I'm not trying to be morbid, having worked in law enforcement I'm used to having to be a skeptic and truly question a inmate's testimony. I seriously am not trying to cause more pain for Darla, truthfully I'm trying to help piece together the story. It's changed overall (of course, who's reporting it?) but also that part stuck out at me. I can't help it, it's questionable. Maybe worth mentioning to Darla's lawyer and asking the lawyer to investigate?

[Angela Freda]

apassionato, if the horse was dead? I would think like any animal, before rigor sets in, it would be doable?

Jingles for Darla.

[jackalini]

I can't help it, it's questionable. Maybe worth mentioning to Darla's lawyer and asking the lawyer to investigate?

I hadn't thought about this until you said something, but it is true. Without going into details, when a horse is PTS, their eyes do not close nor stay closed.

May they all rot in jail.

[DieBlaueReiterin]

only two years???? that is a f*&%$#ng travesty. this is outrageous. i could kill him with my bare hands, i really could.:mad:

[Angela Freda]

Any updates from today?

[Oldenburg Mom]

Yup just what I was wondering. I can't read about the stuff in the newspapers,... I had nightmares last night about the cat.

I hope some CoTHers are attending ... I imagine Darla is simply beside herself.

[Sonesta]

THEY WERE CONVICTED! http://www.theeagle.com/local/FormerA_Mstudentfoundguiltyinhorsekilling

[Reds-n-Greys]

Here's hoping he gets the max!!!!

(and of course, a healthy case of the dreaded COTH exlosive diarrhea!)


and finally {{{{HUGS}}}} to Darla

[Appassionato]

I hadn't thought about this until you said something, but it is true. Without going into details, when a horse is PTS, their eyes do not close nor stay closed.

May they all rot in jail.

To better put into words what was on my mind about that particular testimony (sorry, school's been terrible this week): the boy that claims he closed the horse's eyes...his testimony is questionable to me. I wonder if he's just throwing the other kid "underneath the bus" so to speak. Basically I don't believe the kid and I think he's trying to come out smelling like a rose and get a lesser sentence. THAT kind of criminal worries me the most.

Again, I am NOT trying to cause ANY more heartache nor nightmares for Darla. My intentions are only to hopefully help her case.

[Tiempo]

This is FANTASTIC news!!!

GO JURY...15 minute decision!!!, I want to hug them all as much as I want to torture the crap out of that disgusting excuse for humanity.

Hope he gets the max, but 2 years is pathetic...I hope every minute of his incarceration is filled with fear and suffering.

Bastard.

Edited to add, I'm not a vindictive person usually, but his deeds are bringing out the worst in me.

[GaitedNightmare]

I am sorry, I totally wimped out on reading the article after having read everyones comments. I am sick about it. I cannot read it.

Jennifer

[War Admiral]

Thank GOD they got the S.O.B. Hope he has the worst time in prison anyone can imagine, and then some.

[Lori B]

Thank heavens. And thank the prosecutor.

As soon as they are sentenced, it's then time to write letters to the prosecutor and the judge to THANK THEM for taking this crime seriously, and making sure it was prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Also, local newspapers' letters to the editor. Ideally those of you in Texas, since out of state attention will not carry as much weight.

[SEFBH87]

Wow. That was quick! But soo well deserved. It's good to know that sometimes evil doesn't get away on "I was a drunk"... Not a legitimate excuse.

Now just have to wait for the sentencing.

[CarouselPony]

There is supposed to be an update tomorrow in the same paper...

[J Swan]

What about the rest of the lowlifes? One who was more worried about getting into med school than stopping or preventing someone from doing harm?

There's a recipe for a good physician right there. :rolleyes:


Who do we call to make sure this dirtbag has a nice welcoming committee when he gets to prison?

[ChocoMare]

Oh thank God.

He definitely needs a welcoming committee to turn him into their broodmare. :mad:

[Kimberlee]

Do we know when the sentencing was set for?

[Oldenburg Mom]

Thank heavens. And thank the prosecutor.

As soon as they are sentenced, it's then time to write letters to the prosecutor and the judge to THANK THEM for taking this crime seriously, and making sure it was prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Also, local newspapers' letters to the editor. Ideally those of you in Texas, since out of state attention will not carry as much weight.

Yes, please anyone who knows this information post it here for all of us!!!!

[SweatySaddlepad]

I wish I hadn't read the testimony either :cry:, I literally feel sick to my stomach and my heart. My thoughts are with the owner, I can't imagine having to listen to that if it were my horse, it was awful enough and I didn't even know him :cry:. Does anyone know if she will be allowed to testify in the sentencing hearing, I'm sure that would be powerful....sending (((((HUGS))))) to her and her family.

[BabyGoose]

I havn't had a chance to read through all the posts so somebody has probably mentioned this already. This guy is going to kill a person next if he is not locked up. He strangled a cat, then he moved up to a horse, planning it out. He is going to kill a person and I wish judges etc would start to take cases of animal cruelty more seriously. He is just practicing and getting his nerve up to kill a human. Since I havn't read through all the stuff or the conviction article yet, I am hoping that this point is brought up somewhere in the trial. I did read the first article containing the testimony and I am sick to my stomach and angry and just can't read anymore right now. That poor horse. It makes me so afraid to leave my horses alone for one minute.

[Appassionato]

What about the rest of the lowlifes? One who was more worried about getting into med school than stopping or preventing someone from doing harm?

There's a recipe for a good physician right there. :rolleyes:


Who do we call to make sure this dirtbag has a nice welcoming committee when he gets to prison?

Same premed student called out to the scene by another lowlife, who supposedly felt just terrible for the horse (possibly same one that closed the horse's eyes?), but went back and played online poker until Peterson returned. Same premed student who didn't want to call the police because drugs were in the apartment/house.

The punk will probably be put in isolation or the most quiet of the dorms in jail due to suicide risk.

[solostream24]

There has been some media feedback in Canada recently in regards to parents of young offenders being held responsible for their childrens actions. Even though this kid is old enough to be sentenced for this crime, I find it hard to believe that as a responsible human being let alone a parent that there is not some blame to be laid in this regard. Something in their parenting skills (or lack thereof) MUST have played a role in this kid's unspeakably horrendous actions. Whatever would posses someone.....I say hold the parents responsible too.........

[bambam]

solo- your answer on that is that the parents of this person support him or at least did when this horror first happened. Of course I do not know for certain how his parents feel but am basing this on what I remember the news reports quoted them as saying after his arrest.
IMHO, any parent who will not say that their child doing this is wrong, is clearly part of the problem.
His defense made me want to vomit (sure you love animals- is that why you were strangling the cat beforehand?:mad:)
Good on the jury for seeing straight through that

[sabby]

What?? If he was an alcoholic then, he is still considered an alcoholic now! And that was some major blackout (if that's even true, which I doubt). Most people who blackout just sleep with someone really ugly or wake up in their car at Dairy Queen or something like that. This guy, on the other hand, has a very disturbed subconscious to do what he did. And the total lack of remorse and the not taking any responsibility for what they did (alcohol, med school).

It is quite obvious to me that their trashy parents have coddled their worthless asses all of their lives. I'm sure that their parents are just thinking that it was just a horse or it was just a cat and that boys will be boys and they were drunk...what's the big deal?? I mean, that's why they pleaded innocent in the first place isn't it? They were probably hoping the jury had the same thought process they did. Total denial!!

If it were me, I would do my darndest to keep up with these boys and do all that I could to ruin their lives. Strong words and time would tell, but that would be my first inclination. Hooray for the jury.

Stacy

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

Ditto - if there is any way when it comes to sentencing, we can assure this !O*!U@~O gets the max, let us know! I called and e mailed before, I'll do it again!

And I hope this I!~I)I!@ becomes the prison beyatch of some very big, very nasty very horny Bubba type guy.

And just a thought: any way Darla can bring a civil suit against him and the other lowlifes, to force them, to make restitution? Obviously they had $$$ for lawyers. Not that it would bring her horse back, but I really want these lowlifes to suffer the consequences of what they did, and have a permanent record.

By the way, on our admissions forms, you are obligated to state whether you have ever been convicted of a felony.

[bambam]

Dressage Geek- I think Darla said in the past, she was waiting for the criminal trial to be over before bringing a civiil suit- and if she did not say it, that is the smart way to do it.
I hope she brings a civil suit now

[millwrightmomma]

I hope that when this is all over Darla has enough ammunition to bring a substantial civil suit forward, and gets the peace her soul needs to try and recover from this horrific time in her life.
As for the scumbags that did this...........not printable

[jackalini]

http://www.theeagle.com/local/Cruelty_trial_ends_with_fast_verdict

It's a good one, but do not read it if you are sensitive to the details. This is perhaps the most gruesome of the articles.

All I can say is thank you Craig Kapitan. And thank you to the DA. And to the jury. Thank you all. Prayers and hugs for Darla.

They are supposed to sentence him today, per the article.

[Oldenburg Mom]

For those of us that can't take the awful details, please keep this thread up-to-date. I hope they throw the book at that guy...and I hope he has a terrible time in jail. It's what he deserves.

Darla, I hope you sue him for BILLIONS. Not that he'll be able to pay, ..

[Sonesta]

Unfortunately, in Texas (as in most states) animals are considered mere property and damages for loss of an animal are limited to the animal's fair market value. No pain and suffering. No emotional stress. No sentimental value. Etc.

[Thomas_1]

He's only facing 2 years????

He needs to rot in hell!

[Equibrit]

What's the betting that these scumbags do 6 months in a country club jail before being let off for "good" behaviour"?

[Sakura]

People like this need to be hot branded in an area of high visibility so they can be spotted from a mile away... mothers can gather their children, animal owners can protect their pets, and the general population can see the freaks for what they are. A scarlet letter of their own.

[Angela Freda]

What's the betting that these scumbags do 6 months in a country club jail before being let off for "good" behaviour"?
I dunno, the jury sure did come to their verdict pretty fast.
Anyone know if that bodes well for a 'book throwing', or not?

*fingers crossed*

[philosoraptor]

I am pessimistic he'll get much. Texas mentality seems to be that horses are just property, not worthy of much more than a vandalism charge. I'll be surprised if he spends more than a few days in jail. A big sarcastic 'yay!' for the "horses as property" mentality. :rolleyes:

Child molesters are shown to often have a history to going back to it. We recognize this. But people who brutally beat an animal to death intentionally are also often likely to be brutal to other animals and often move on to people. Why do we let them off with a slap on the wrist and forget what they do? This guy is sick and needs some serious help before a child is the target of his next drunken rage.

[caffeinated]

I really hope the sentencing is to the maximum allowable. I like to think they will, as it seems the jurors had no doubt in his guilt given how quickly they decided.

Still can't believe someone could be so cruel... gives me the shudders trying to contemplate what they were thinking...

[arabhorse2]

Small consolation is that once he's served his two years, he'll escalate to torturing and killing people, and then maybe will finally be put away for good.

What a freakin' travesty!!! :mad:

[millwrightmomma]

Let us make sure that we all email or phone the DA's office to congradulate them on getting a conviction, and to hope that they can get the maximum penalty for the first defendent.
There is still another trial to go, the william's scum.

The DA's office, Bill turner and Shane Phelps 1 979 361 4320
Shane's email addy sphelps@co.brazos.tx.us

Good work to all COTHer's that called, faxed and emailed before. These numbers were presented at the trial to the judge.

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

DONE!

[Appassionato]

What about the rest of the lowlifes? One who was more worried about getting into med school than stopping or preventing someone from doing harm?

There's a recipe for a good physician right there. :rolleyes:


Who do we call to make sure this dirtbag has a nice welcoming committee when he gets to prison?

The new article mentions that the defense thinks that Vigneaux (premed student that closed the horse's eyes, had drugs in his apartment, etc...) was more involved than he claims in the horse's death. Interesting...

I am hoping Darla is getting through this OK.

[Tiempo]

I saw mentioned that sentencing was Friday, was that Friday as in today?

Anyone hear anything?

Seems awfully fast for the wheels of justice, but that's ok with me.

[Oldenburg Mom]

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE ... if anyone knows what this creep got, please let us all know!

[Sonesta]

No punishment info yet. Might have to wait til Monday

[Sonesta]

Well, I just heard. He only got 9 months!

[War Admiral]

Well, I just heard. He only got 9 months!

Oh NO. :(

[millwrightmomma]

Holy crap :(
nine months, nothing else??
fines, probation, therapy????


http://www.theeagle.com/local/Horse_killer__gets_9_months

[carolprudm]

apassionato, if the horse was dead? I would think like any animal, before rigor sets in, it would be doable?

Jingles for Darla.

If a horse dies with its eyes open they stay open. You can't shut them. The next horse i put down will be wearing a fly mask.

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

ONLY NINE MONTHS???

Can we mount some sort of protest?

Man. I hope Darla nails those f^&*(ng bastards in a civil suit. I don't want those scum ever to see the light of day.

[Angela Freda]

He got 9 mos, 6 at one jail and 3 at another, 5 years probation during which he can not live in a home with pets, community service (forget how much/how long- hope it includes cleaning kennels with his own toothbrush, except that would mean he was near animals and I would never wish that on anyone.), and a $10,000 fine to pay restitution to Darla

[Sobriska]

Oh Darla, I am SO sorry:(
So very unfair.

[ESG]

Well, at least he was convicted. And ordered to pay restitution. Still sucks, though.

Darla, ream him in your civil suit. Make sure, like OJ, that he never has a pot to pee in or a window to throw it out of, for the rest of his life. If the Goldmans can do it, you can, too. :yes: You go, girl. !

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

And if there is anything we can do, in support of your civil suit, please let us know!

Know what scares me? So much support to throw the book at this scum, and all he got was 9 months. Can you imagine if we had not mounted any sort of campaign?

[ESG]

I see your point, Geek, but doubt that the jury (or anyone else in charge of sentencing) was made aware of the opinions of COTH and others in support of Darla and the law. I don't think they were allowed to be told this, so as not to influence them. Such bullshit....................:mad:

[Thomas_1]

Whether the scum bag not 9 months or the maximum 2 years is irrelevent to me. Neither IMO is sufficient in terms of justice for such a henious act of cruelty to what is one of nature's most honourable, trusting and placid animals.

I sincerely hope that the publicity this generates means that the scum bag is ostracised by the civilised community and that he has a life sentence of total misery and which is no more or less than he deserves.

Goodness knows how the owner has coped listening to what the scumbag did or hearing what the legal system was "fair" and right in terms of justice. Its a pitiful sentence and its angers me that "justice" isn't done in this case!

[Lori B]

But many of us wrote to the PROSECUTOR, and they are elected, and I believe that it at least prevented misdemeanor, suspended sentence, hand-slap type non-prosecution of this crime.

Yes, Darla, can we help?

Does anyone on COTH know a pitiless a$$-kicking civil litigator in Texas who will dissect these little creeps? That's what she needs. A seriously top-drawer, take no prisoners lawyer who will pin these guys to the wall and not stop. One that might cut her a break on costs?

[Cashela]

9 months, that is pathetic. I have some choice words but I will spare you all.

[J Swan]

Keep in mind that crimes against other humans often get less time than this defendant did.

While I personally would like to throw him in a dark cell and throw away the key, a rapist can get time like this, so can a pedophile, a drunk driver who causes a bad accident - or even LESS or NO time. The fact that this scumbag got any jail time is a good thing.

Before maligning the prosecutor or judge - try to put this sentence into context with the types of sentences other violent offenders are getting.
While crimes against animals are not punished as severely as those against humans, we just have to keep in mind that crimes against humans aren't punished as severely as we'd like, either.

Does that make sense?

[sidepasser]

Your post makes perfect sense J. Swan. My problem with the way things are is that criminals are not afraid anymore to do something totally heinous because deep down, they KNOW they will do little to no time.

Even with a death penalty case..it's years and stacks of appeals sucking the life out of the taxpaying system before the person can be removed from society and that goes for the ones that ADMIT their crimes.

It makes us angry that this horse killer only got 9 months, a fine and probation, but honestly..that appears to be alot considering we have folks that commit atrocious crimes against people and they serve little to no time or spend years on appeal (which we pay for as taxpayers for both sides as by that time if the criminal had money, it's usually gone).

I am glad the guy got as much time as he did. I wish it had been more. I hope that Darla can hire a jam up attorney to nail him in a civil suit so that he never, ever profits from any sales of any books or any job ever again in life. I wonder though..and bear with me here..if he never has any hope of ever making any type of living again.. what type of "work" he will be up to? I have doubts that he will be "rehabilitated"..I have always thought that there was something inherently wrong with people who are cruel to animals. Even more so than people who are cruel to people (except children and that is whole nuther thread)..so if this guy gets out in 9 months..what's the odds that he won't do something again like this, but will have learned to be much more careful in the future. For some reason I doubt that the urge that started this behavior will just evaporate by being in prison for a short stint (if he even goes to prison, he may get stuck in a local work camp if they have them in Texas like they do in GA counties). Wonder if any of that jail time will include psychiatric treatment/counseling/therapy or whatever the politically correct term is these days?

Just a thought as this guy is definitely a sick personality. (and I cannot believe his parents were so barn blind as to not see signs of this earlier in his life...I am sure this inclination to torture, maim and kill animals didn't just manifest itself overnight like "joyriding in a car" might.)

[Proud To Be Spotted]

Darla,

Im so sorry. What mixed feelings you must have. On one hand the trail is over, but it really settles nothing. You still dont have Chic.

Jim James, the defense attorney states his client "was eager to put this case behind him." What a sad statement. Go do a little bit of time. Then just blame it all on drugs and alcohol. Im sure he and his family are saying, "poor baby, he just fell in with the wrong crowd" and making it all fit in their perfect little world.

Does anyone know if Darla can still sue if she was given money in this case, and Texas only allows for the recovery of the value of the horse??

[millwrightmomma]

Personally I would have liked to see the little puke drawn and quartered, but if wishes were horses...........
While I would have liked to have seen the book thrown at this guy, I'm sure the DA managed to wrangle the best deal he thought he could, AND also make sure the puke and his parents couldn't appeal. I don't know about Texas law, but in Canada if your lawyer makes a deal for you, and you accept, then you do not have the right to appeal.
This likely weighed in the situation.

On the up side, Darla now has some "seed" money to hire a snapping good lawyer to sue the asses off the puke and his parents, and everyone involved.
Absolutely NO amount of money is going to bring back Chic .

Darla is you need something, email me. If there is anything I can do to help, I will be happy to.
Lots of jingles going your way from the not yet frozen north :)

[Sonesta]

Just got more information. It was not the jury that gave this sentence. Before the jury came back (doubtless with the full 2 years in jail), the little sh*t entered into a plea bargain in which he will serve 6 months in a state jail then 3 months in the Brazos County jail as part of 5 years’ probation. He also has to pay the horse owner $10,000 restitution, buy a full-page newspaper ad apologizing to the owner, undergo psychological evaluation and alcohol treatment if directed, perform 250 hours of community service, and not own or live with any pets while on probation.

[Equibrit]

It takes two sides to make a bargain - so who allowed this, and would the horse owner have been consulted?

[ESG]

Ahhh,................so sleazebag's attorney saw the writing on the wall, did he? How unfortunate. :no:

Thanks, Sonesta, for that update. That makes me feel a bit better. I was beginning to lose faith in the belief that Texans would sooner kill a man than a horse, and blast a man that killed a horse. :yes:

[Adamantane]

A successful civil suit may be satisfying to contemplate but no doubt the kid is judgment proof, having no assets and since he was an adult (18) his parents who may have assets are in the clear. OJ had assets and the potential to create more, so there was something for the Goldmans to get.

In the also horrific Noah's Ark cat shelter case in Iowa ten years ago the nominal value of the cats was deemed too small for even for a felony charge to attach and for that reason and the limited resources of the perpetrators, a later civil suit evidently was pointless.

[BuddyRoo]

While it may be a little frustrating for us, the fact that he got ANYTHING is certainly worth celebrating. Another similar case I am aware of on another board--we wrote letters, we did everything we could--and the kid got probation only as I recall. They target practiced on a horse. Horse was still alive (down, but alive) when neighbors found him the next morning.

I'm going to guess that the prosecutor felt that the chances of getting jailtime was less w/ the jury, else they wouldn't have offered the plea post-conviction. What if the jury had just given him a slap on the hand? It's hard to say.

Anyway....i'm glad they got SOMETHING.

[catknsn]

Hey, he's a snotty college kid...those are going to be a LONG nine months and my understanding is that animal abusers, like child molesters, are often targeted by other convicts for the worst treatment. Hope he has to share a cell with someone who loves his dog!

I would have liked to have seen harsher BUT he did get time. I have seen them get off completely with probation/community service, blah blah.

[millwrightmomma]

A civil suit also has the ability to get 'future' earnings, and if the person is shown to be 'hiding' money etc, as in putting assests in another's name while paying for them, they can be removed.

The problenm being, you never get closure, you are always monitoring what the scumbag is doing.
His parents do have some money obviously, so eventually he will get some, butnothing will bring back CHIC.

Hopefully in his overcrowded jail cell, there are animal lovers.

[Oldenburg Mom]

HAS ANYONE HEARD FROM DARLA? How is she holding up? Is she ok? Please let us all know how she's doing.

[inca]

While I would have liked to see the max sentence of 2 years, let's be realistic here. He was convicted of a FELONY that will stay with him the rest of his life. He will serve 9 months in jail and be on probation for 5 years. This is actually a good result in the context of what often happens in cases like these. I am also glad he had to pay $10K restitution. That is a reasonable sum and should help Darla out. Unfortunately, nothing will bring Chic back. All in all, I think the result of the trial is fairly positive.

In contrast, a man who shot his wife and admitted to doing so had his trial end in a hung jury a week or so ago.

[inca]

FYI - on a local BB, it was reported that Darla approved the plea agreement and was very happy with it. Hopefully she will check in and confirm this.

Apparently, if the jury would have sentenced him, there would have been NO restitution, no probation after jail time and no required psychiatric counseling.

It really sounds like the plea deal was in the best interest of Darla and the College Station community.

[sabby]

He will have a felony on his record. When he goes to apply for anything, job, credit, that felony will show up. He will always be known as "that guy who killed that horse and that cat". His life will be MUCH harder than what I'm sure he's used to. Can you imagine what a future employer will think when they ask, "What were you convicted for?" Any decent girl that he wants to go out with will surely (hopefully) run for her life (or his, if his bread is buttered on the other side) when he has to tell them what he did... It just goes on and on, neighbors, church goers...etc. He's 22 right now? You know he is an immature idiot who STILL doesn't think he did anything wrong. Give it a few months when he's lost his freedom and hopefully he'll have been taken down a notch. He will be on probation for 5 years. That means that he has to be on the up and up or he goes back to jail which I hope is just horrible for him. Oh and let's not forget soap on a rope folks:)

If Darla is satisfied then I am satisfied...

Stacy

[J Swan]

It takes two sides to make a bargain - so who allowed this, and would the horse owner have been consulted?


Victims are not consulted, Equibrit. The state makes all decisions regarding prosecution - the victim testifies as a witness and has little to no involvement or influence.

In a civil suit - it's completely different. But in a criminal prosecution - the state is the party - the victim is pretty much just a witness. In some cases, the victim can submit a statement, or testify to the repercussions of the defendants crime against him/her. Hopefully the judge/jury would consider that statement/testimony when deciding a sentence.


But most cases never get that far. The plea bargain is the way things are done nowadays. The jury is not consulted and neither is the judge - the judge is informed of the plea bargain.

There is not written in stone - cases vary, court rules vary, laws vary from state to state. But generally - that's the way things go.

Don't get me started. :mad:

[Adamantane]

But most cases never get that far. The plea bargain is the way things are done nowadays. The jury is not consulted and neither is the judge - the judge is informed of the plea bargain. Don't get me started. :mad:

I thought the judge needed to approve a plea bargain and could reject it if he felt it was inapprporiate. Or is that just in NY on Law and Order?:lol:

[J Swan]

I thought the judge needed to approve a plea bargain and could reject it if he felt it was inapprporiate. Or is that just in NY on Law and Order?:lol:

You're right - I just didn't want to explain the entire process so I dodged it and said it varies.

(I like Law and Order too. I've always like Sam Waterston)


That's why it's often difficult for people to understand why just a horrible crime would get such a "light" sentence. This sentence is within the norms - or it would not have been accepted.

Unless we want to build more jails and eliminate the plea bargain system - that's the way things are. For rapists, pedophiles, animal abusers - you name it. Life doesn't mean life, death doesn't mean death. In some jurisdictions they MUST release prisoners early due to overcrowding.

Personally - I think any violent offender should just be shot or hanged.

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

I just hope that Darla is finding some sort of peace and resolution.

She's a better woman than I. If it were me, I worry that I would have someone teach me how to use a gun or knife and repeat the process on the guilty parties - eye for an eye. Which, of course, solves nothing. Nothing brings the horse back.

[Anne FS]

So glad he did get time behind bars. What a horrible case.

This, though:

"Vigneaux said he and Williams talked about calling police, but he had drugs in the house and didn't want to jeopardize his chance of getting into medical school by having a criminal record."

Wow. Does anyone have more information on this? What year is he, is he applying to med school this year or has he changed his plans now? I think Mr. Vigneaux needs a little follow-up.

I may have to do a little search on the student doctor website to see if he's there.

[olympicprincess]

I just hope that Darla is finding some sort of peace and resolution.

She's a better woman than I. If it were me, I worry that I would have someone teach me how to use a gun or knife and repeat the process on the guilty parties - eye for an eye. Which, of course, solves nothing. Nothing brings the horse back.
Me too.

I hope he is around animal lovers and they make his life Hell.

[Iron Horse Farm]

I think that I would post a huge sign in my yard that says "SO and So is a horse murderer" state the court case and list his parents phone number.

I agree that the sentence is light, however this conviction will follow him for the rest of his life. He is not a juvenile, it will not be exponged by good behavior. The college will likely not take him back. In the next 5 years if he is stopped for a traffic violation he will go back to jail for violation of parole.

[TexasProsecutor]

Hello everyone,

My name is Shane Phelps and I was the lead prosecutor in the State of Texas v. Kenneth Peterson, the case that ended last week in a guilty verdict and negotiated plea on punishment.

I first would like to extend my gratitude to all of you for your conscientious and determined support of this prosecution as well as your very warm and generous support of Darla during this very difficult time for her.

I would like to try to answer a few of the questions raised by your posts regarding the resolution of the case. There are a few things that I cannot speak to as there is still another case pending and ethical constraints prevent me from commenting on a pending case. However, I think I can address a few of your comments and concerns about the Peterson case.

From the beginning, we took this case very seriously, not only because of the well-documented link between cruelty to animals and violence toward humans, but also because we felt so strongly about what happened to Chic. We always knew that we would go to trial on Peterson and seek prison time, but I always had concerns about whether that would be enough to address the threat he might pose to our community. As you know, the maximum sentence for cruelty to animals is two years in state jail. We almost did not get to that point initially because there were loopholes in the law that prevented us from proceeding under one of the other, much more easily proved ways to commit animal cruelty in Texas. (We worked with the Texas Legislature this past session to strengthen our animal cruelty statutes). We had to proceed on the allegation that what occurred to Chic was intentional torture and, unfortunately, that term is not defined in Texas law.

With those issues addressed, we proceeded to trial. The defense put up a very vigorous defense exploiting the fact that there were three young men involved with no way of knowing who actually did what to Chic. We believed, and still do, that the evidence points strongly to Peterson being the main actor. This was an important case to us because this is the first felony animal cruelty case in memory to go to trial in our county and we really had no way of knowing how a jury would react. We were confident, however, that any jury we seated would be mortified by the defendant's conduct. And they were. The jury returned a verdict in about 11 minutes rejecting soundly the defense's arguments that Peterson was not guilty.

This quick verdict put us in a very good bargaining position. As I have said, I have always been concerned that simply putting Peterson in jail or prison as the only sanction would not be sufficient to address his conduct. If the jury had sentenced Mr. Peterson to the maximum, then he would have served two years in prison and would have been released back into society without any supervision or without having even attempted to deal with whatever personal issues (substance abuse, mental illness, etc.) that may have been at the root of his conduct. Also, because there is no parole in state jail sentences in Texas, I would have not been able to get any restitution for Darla.

So, when the defense came to me the morning after the verdict and just before the sentencing phase was to begin (I had no further evidence to put on as the defendant had no criminal history and we had no other evidence of other bad acts on his part) and asked whether there was any way to work out an agreement on punishment, I told him that I was always open to talking, but that anything we did would have to include time in prison, restitution to Darla, and significant supervision of the defendant once he was released. Most importantly, I told him that there would be no agreed punishment unless the agreement was approved by Darla and her family. We discussed the matter and when he told me that his client was willing to accept prison time and supervision, as well as a number of other conditions, I met with Darla and her family. They were very supportive of the agreement. With their blessing, I agreed to the punishment as follows:

The defendant accepted a six month prison term on a final conviction for animal cruelty. He was also fined the maximum $10,000 fine. This means that Kenneth Peterson, absent a gubernatorial pardon (and that ain't gonna happen, as they say), is now and will always be a convicted felon. If he had been given probation on this charge, he would have been eligible for a discharge of his probation eventually that would have restored his civil rights (voting, possessing weapons, etc.) and possibly seen the indictment set aside and the case dismissed. This conviction as agreed is a permanent part of his record and can be used against him if he ever gets in trouble again.

Peterson also agreed to plead guilty to an additional felony, criminal mischief, and was placed on five years probation. As a condition of his probation he must serve an additional 90 days in our jail once he is released from prison, pay $10,000 restitution to Darla, perform 250 hours of community service, place a full-page ad in our local paper apologizing to Darla, submit to psychiatric evaluation and treatment, abstain from all alcohol and drugs, and he may not own, possess or live with animals while on probation. As with all probationers, he is also subject to numerous other conditions of probation including reporting to a probation officer at least once a month.

At the end of the day, Peterson received both prison time and we will be able to meaningfully supervise him for the next five years. If he steps out of line, we can file a motion to revoke his probation, have him arrested, and after a hearing before the court, potentially send him to prison again, without credit for the time he has already served.

I was gratified to learn in discussing the case with the jurors after the verdict that they were likely to send Peterson to prison, but it appears that they would have compromised somewhere between a year and 18 months. Some on the jury wanted to show some leniency and others wanted the maximum. So, if they had sentenced him to prison for 18 months, he would be out in 18 months with no supervision, no restitution, no psychiatric evaluation and treatment, no restriction on his drug or alcohol use (other than the laws we must all live by), and no ability to send him back to prison if he screws up. None of this would have been possible with a straight prison sentence. And finally, if Peterson had been sentenced to prison by the jury, he would almost certainly have appealed and would likely have been released on an appellate bond while the case was litigated in the courts of appeal, a process that can take at least a couple of years. During that time, he would not be subject to any meaningful supervision, and would not begin serving his sentence until that process was completed. I really wanted Darla to see Peterson led off to prison in handcuffs that day. Of course, as a condition of the agreement, Peterson was required to waive all of his appeals.

A prosecutor's duty is to seek justice. Sometimes that means we have to exercise our discretion to do what is best for our community. The easy answer here would have been to simply have let the jury decide and let them weather the criticism if people weren't happy with their verdict. However, we determined that the best thing for our community, Darla, and yes, Peterson himself, was for there to be both prison time and significant supervision and conditions of probation.

There you have it. An insider's look at the process. Once again, I appreciate all of your comments both before and after the verdict and your passion to see justice done for Darla and Chic. I hope this has been helpful to you and I wish you all the best.

Shane Phelps
First Assistant District Attorney
Brazos County, Texas

[arabhorse2]

Thank you Shane.

Knowing what the punishment entails, I can now rest much easier.

Kudoes for taking this so seriously, and helping Darla find some closure.

[SGray]

Dear TexasProsecutor -- thank you so much for your work on this case and your careful consideration of the implications of the available sentencing options -- all animal lovers will be grateful that you have made this man's crime stay with him for life

[asb_own_me]

In the next 5 years if he is stopped for a traffic violation he will go back to jail for violation of parole.

Is that true? Here's hoping he's got a lead foot he has trouble controlling ;)

[ESG]

Dear Mr. Phelps,

What a wonderful, wonderful job you did. Thank you so very much. I know that I will rest easier because of the job you did putting Peterson away, and that he will always bear the stigma of his actions. Bravo. :yes:

[Anne FS]

Thank you so much, Shane, for that information.

It was definitely the right thing to do, especially submitting to psychiatric evaluation and treatment. That's the most important part. Well done.

Also, folks, note that if Peterson has a beer anytime over the next 5 years he's violating parole. So people will be watching.

I hope that with these conditions, esp. the psychiatric treatment and the abstaining from all alcohol and drugs for five years, that this gets this man on track. IF he does all he's supposed to do, let him live his life. IF he serves his punishment and gets treatment, he earns himself the chance to live (unlike Chic, I know). If he gets treatment and tries to reform, what hope does he (or any other incarcerated person) ever have if people make it clear to them that it's hopeless, that even after they're out they will be hounded forevermore?

[DressageGeek "Ribbon Ho"]

ditto what everyone else said - thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!

[Anne FS]

I admit, though, to wanting to know if Vigneaux is applying to medical school this year, and if he gets in.

[Oldenburg Mom]

Dear Mr. Phelps,

Thank you for writing such a comprehensive explanation of what happened on the inside.

I especially want to thank you for taking Darla and her family into consideration when negotiating this agreement. While perhaps it is not strict enough (would any sentence have been strict enough?) the fact that you included them shows a fundamental respect that, perhaps, has not been evident in other prosecutions of cruelty this BB has supported. This case is a good benchmark to judge other cases by; I think you did a fine job, and I think you deserve a lot of credit for coming on to a public forum and explaining your position.

Additionally, when I read the original description, I thought of my own youngsters. And how I'd feel if I came out one morning and found one of my weanlings or yearlings in the same condition as Chic. Once anyone, any horseperson, puts themselves in that position,... well, I don't know how Darla has managed to keep going. I hope your conscientous effort has given her some comfort.

My hat is off to you, sir. This country needs a lot more just like you.

Yours sincerely,
Caroline Carnes.

[Manes&Tails]

I could had not asked for, nor found any better representation for my case then Shane Phelps, Assistant District Attorney.

He truly cares about the people and animals in my community, and I thank him for this.

This trial was not about revenge/vengeance, but justice for Chic, to seek help for a troubled soul, and to keep our community safe.

Darla

[Manes&Tails]

I admit, though, to wanting to know if Vigneaux is applying to medical school this year, and if he gets in.


No comment, but most likely, from an inside source, NO!:no:

[ChocoMare]

Thank you Mr. Phelps for taking time out of your schedule to give us the whole picture. Thank you, too, for fighting for our dear COTH-sister, Darla. We've been upholding her through all this and prayed for a good resolution for her and Chic. Bless you.

Darla, dear. You know we're gonna be praying for your emotional healing now that this part is finally over. May you find peace and closure at last.


((((((((((((((((( Big Hugs ))))))))))))))))))

[Manes&Tails]

I find a part of the story somewhat strange: I nor others that I have heard have been able to get a horse to close his eyelids by just moving them. I'm not trying to be morbid, having worked in law enforcement I'm used to having to be a skeptic and truly question a inmate's testimony. I seriously am not trying to cause more pain for Darla, truthfully I'm trying to help piece together the story. It's changed overall (of course, who's reporting it?) but also that part stuck out at me. I can't help it, it's questionable. Maybe worth mentioning to Darla's lawyer and asking the lawyer to investigate?

You are so correct, yes, her eyes were open when I found her. I have heard that horses always die with their eyes open. :cry:

[Sonesta]

Thank you, Shane. You and the DA have just garnered the support of the entire community of animal lovers. We won't forget you in future elections in Texas!

[Mozart]

I have done your job and have an inkling of how hard it is. However one looks at it, you got a great and meaningful result. Congratulations and thank you.

[Manes&Tails]

It takes two sides to make a bargain - so who allowed this, and would the horse owner have been consulted?

I turned down a plea of 10,000.00 cash up front, 6 mts in jail and 5 years probation for this killer to go before a jury and judge, before we went to trial. Yes, I decided with the DA to plea so we can keep up with this guy for 6 years instead of two, so he could not appeal, so he would have 2 felony’s instead of one.

Even though I was after all awarded the 10K, I may never see a penny. For the killer to face a judge and jury meant more to me than the money. Therefore there was a lot of thought by my part to plea at the end.

[Lori]

Dear Mr. Phelps,

Thank you for taking the time to post to this board.


Dear Darla,
I am so sorry. I am at a serious loss for words.

[Manes&Tails]

Yes, please anyone who knows this information post it here for all of us!!!!

Brazos County Courthouse
Shane Phelps
Assistant District Attorney
300 E. 26th Street, Suite 310
Bryan, Texas 77803
979-361-4320
sphelps@co.brazos.tx.us

[Manes&Tails]

But many of us wrote to the PROSECUTOR, and they are elected, and I believe that it at least prevented misdemeanor, suspended sentence, hand-slap type non-prosecution of this crime.

Yes, Darla, can we help?

Does anyone on COTH know a pitiless a$$-kicking civil litigator in Texas who will dissect these little creeps? That's what she needs. A seriously top-drawer, take no prisoners lawyer who will pin these guys to the wall and not stop. One that might cut her a break on costs?

I want to civil sue and have been looking for an attorney, but have not been able to find one to take the case because the killers have no money and can't work while in jail. I may have to CS on my own without an attorney and pay the court cost myself. First I want to get the second trial over with then I will start my civil sue, even if I have to do it myself.

[Manes&Tails]

What's sad and also kept Peterson from getting a longer sentence (10 years) is the fact that the weapons he used to kill Chic could not be considered murder weapons since they were used to kill an animal and not a person!

[Iron Horse Farm]

What other trial? Are the other 2 going to be held responsible for their actions? Felony criminal mischief perhaps?

[Manes&Tails]

What other trial? Are the other 2 going to be held responsible for their actions? Felony criminal mischief perhaps?

Walter Williams still has to face a jury.

[Oldenburg Mom]

Darla,

Are the chances just as good he'll get nailed?

[Manes&Tails]

Darla,

Are the chances just as good he'll get nailed?

Can't say much else at this time about Williams. But, with Shane on our side we can't go wrong!

I can say his attorney was at the whole P trial & listening to every word!

[flshgordon]

Shane, THANK YOU for taking the time to come here and explain the process to all of us. I for one think you did a GREAT job and must admit while I was initially horrified that the 2 years prison time was not achieved, I realize this is a much better outcome for everyone concerned!

Thanks for helping to keep our Aggieland safe from nutjobs like this!:yes:

[J Swan]

Shane - I'm happy to learn that Darla was consulted and involved. Not every victim is given that opportunity.

[Lori B]

Dear Shane --

Thank you for your hard and conscientious work. Your explanation was very edifying and I'm particularly glad for the long probation and other conditions. Thank you also for caring to follow up on making Texas' animal cruelty laws more comprehensive.

And thanks for taking the time to talk to us here on COTH.

[millwrightmomma]

Good work Shane.
I hope the wiliams trial goes as well
Can you tell me if the letter writing/phoning/faxing by all helped,???and if the jury was made aware of it??

[Anne FS]

and if the jury was made aware of it??

Geez, I hope not.

That would not be justice. If the jury based any part of its decision on PUBLIC OPINION as opposed to evidence....yikes.

[Paragon]

That would not be justice. If the jury based any part of its decision on PUBLIC OPINION as opposed to evidence....yikes.

Hello, mistrial. No, this is why juries are sequestered and instructed not to speak with ANYONE about the proceedings.

Your post was illuminating, Mr. Phelps. Thank you so much for taking the time!

[millwrightmomma]

Giving information to the jury about the public outcry does not make a mistrial.
It would have been brought up in the opening or closing arguements, if at all.

if the public as a whole was not outraged at pedophilia, or child abuse or animal abuse, we wouldn't be hearing about it in the news.

Face it folks, less than 100 years ago women in both Canada and the states had NO Rights. And Black people had less than women. Times are changing and the public outcry at things is changing them. Whether we like it or not, or believe it or not, a jury is made up of 12 people, all members of the public

Shane Phelps is very smart. If he brought it up, it would have been worded correctly.

[Paragon]

Times are changing and the public outcry at things is changing them.

Of course. But NOT during the course of a trial. Opinions are changed in society, by society.

[Tamlain]

(or his, if his bread is buttered on the other side)

Stacy

HIS bread may not be buttered on that side, but he's going to have a few months in a state facility where someone may opt to butter it for him, so he may have a little more "punishment" than the courts have ordered.

From what I heard, they don't much cotton nicely to people that harm kids or critters.

[cowgirljenn]

Darla - many *hugs* to you. You stay in my thoughts.

Mr. Phelps - thank you so much for putting your all into this case. We spoke several months ago when this began, and I really appreciate you taking the time to talk to the public, work with Darla, and give this serious thought and effort. Animal lovers around the world thank you.

[Anne FS]

Giving information to the jury about the public outcry does not make a mistrial.
It would have been brought up in the opening or closing arguements, if at all.


I don't think you understand how our legal system works. A jury must reach a verdict based solely on FACTS. If a person is accused of doing something dreadful, the entire point of a jury trial is to PROVE he did it or did not do it. Public outcry is not proof. You're scaring me.


if the public as a whole was not outraged at pedophilia, or child abuse or animal abuse, we wouldn't be hearing about it in the news.

Face it folks, less than 100 years ago women in both Canada and the states had NO Rights. And Black people had less than women. Times are changing and the public outcry at things is changing them.

Public outcry causing laws to be changed is one thing. Public outcry over a heinous act has NOTHING to do with the facts of a legal case. The outcry is over the nasty act, the jury trial looks at evidence only to see if someone did it or not.



Whether we like it or not, or believe it or not, a jury is made up of 12 people, all members of the public


Exactly. And they are charged with weighing Evidence, not with judging someone innocent or guilty based on public opinion. You have a very frightening view of law.

[Appassionato]

You are so correct, yes, her eyes were open when I found her. I have heard that horses always die with their eyes open. :cry:

I really had no intentions of bringing back nightmares or making them worse, truly. I saw something that doesn't fit and thought it might be worth investigating. I really hope I didn't cause more harm to you by pointing that out.

I'm thrilled for you and Chic BTW that you guys got some justice. I'm hoping the best for you!

[Ghazzu]

Face it folks, less than 100 years ago women in both Canada and the states had NO Rights. And Black people had less than women. .

You might want to bone up on your US history. Try starting with a look at Amendments XIV and XV to the US Constitution.

[Proud To Be Spotted]

Darla,
Im glad you are happy with the decision. I hope it gives you some peace. Hopefully the other trail won't even make it to jury and something similar can be worked out. Im sure they took note it only took the jury 11 min. Heck the last time I was on a jury it took us 20min just to get coffee and seated.



Thank you, Shane. You and the DA have just garnered the support of the entire community of animal lovers. We won't forget you in future elections in Texas!

Shane Phelps is a name I will remember.

[mairzeadoats]

Dear Mr. Phelps,
Thank you for taking the time to update and educate us on the outcome of this trial. And thank you many times over for the outstanding job you did to protect your community, help Darla and obtain justice for Chic.

Darla, I'm so sorry for what you've had to go through. Hopefully the next trial will end with as much satisfaction as this one. And I hope you are eventually able to collect restitution -- once he's out of jail, you can always garnish any wages, put a lien against any property he obtains...there are ways -- to help compensate for your financial losses. Obviously nothing can compensate for the emotional trauma, but in time, with closure, you'll finally be able to move on.

[matryoshka]

Mr. Phelps,

Thank you for representing the community so well and for making sure the legal system worked! Your solution is clearly well thought out and in the best interest of all parties. I especially apprecitate how you have tried to make sure Peterson doesn't get the chance to be a repeat offender. And if he does, he'll already have a record.

[Candle]

Dear Mr. Phelps,
Thank you so much for your hard work and concern in this trial. What Peterson did was truly heinous, and my heart goes out to Darla for having to find her filly like she did. I am so relieved that Peterson got such a comprehensive punishment, as it seems that many cases of animal cruelty slip through the cracks in our legal system. By setting a precedent such as this, it gives me hope that our options for animal abuse cases in the U.S. might be looking up. Again, thank you for all of your hard work, and Darla, I hope your strength continues for the next trial.

[RNB]

I have been following this case via this BB and have a few comments....

First, Darla I can not begin to imagine the horrors you have been through and am glad to see the court taking it seriously. Mr. Phelps obviously did a great job and I appreciate his comments.

Secondly, we all talk about stronger/tougher laws regarding animal cruelty. The only way this can be accomplished is to push for them. For those of you in Texas, perhaps teaming up with Mr. Phelps in pushing for legislation in the up-coming General Assembly in 2008. This case could be the ideal springboard for strengthening existing laws. It CAN happen! I know because I am using a case in which I was a victim, horse-related but not cruelty, to push for a law here in VA. A Senator has agreed to sponsor it in the next session. I am not a lobbyist....just a pony-mom...and have never done anything like this in my life. But I'm pushing forward and now have support around the state. I'd be glad to help in anyway possible just as I am sure the other good COTH posters would be.

[Badger]

Mr. Phelps, thank you for elaborating on how the sentence was reached, and why. It makes a lot of sense, and I know how unusual ANY jail time is in an animal abuse case.

For those asking about Vigneaux's med school future...there are a finite number of med schools in the states. There is nothing to prevent a concerned observer from sending a copy of the newspaper article, with Vigneaux's quote highlighted, to the Directors of Admission at a variety of med schools, "just giving a little background in case this individual applies to your program."

[Manes&Tails]

http://www.kbtx.com/home/headlines/10676641.html


http://www.kbtx.com/news/headlines/10651801.html

[knowonder]

Mr. Phelps:

Thank you so much for your dilligence and expertise in this matter. More importantly, thank you for your vision in being able to look past the "just a horse" mentality of some and see this for the incredibly dangerous behavioural pattern that it is. It is possible that you not only got justice for Darla and Chic, but that you may have saved someone's life by intervening here and now in Mr. Peterson's actions.

Darla:

Here is wishing you peace and success in all that follows.

Sincerely,

Sara

[Anne FS]

By setting a precedent such as this, it gives me hope that our options for animal abuse cases in the U.S. might be looking up.

I think you're right, Candle. Authorities now take very seriously the connection between cruelty to animals and either pure D evil or mental illness.

Still in Texas, San Antonio is on the lookout for this person:

http://www.ksat.com/news/14418004/detail.html

H/she WILL be caught.

[Duffy]

Darla - continued {{{hugs}}} to you.

Mr. Phelps - thank you so much for your dedication, sensitivity and expertise, as well as taking the time to post here. Your post brought tears to my eyes. Thank you again.

[Kimberlee]

Mr. Phelps -

Thank you for your work in this matter.

[CarouselPony]

Please accept my appreciation for taking the time out to explain the process and definitely for all of your hard work - hopefully Darla will be able to find some semblance of peace now.

Wishing you much success in the future, and may you never lose that ability to discern and act on the difference between real 'justice' and the band aid quick fix.

*applause*