Just started: Be bold enough to be one of the first signers to get the momentum going.  You wonder if this matters, well this petition gets forwarded to those who are in charge.  So yes it does.

The two murders and two attempted murders were evil enough...but shooting the Hortman's pet dog too?  Gilbert was humanely euthanized to end the suffering from gunshot injuries.

And yet somehow in the list of charges, the prosecutors failed to charge the suspect with animal cruelty charges?  

This petition is simple:
"As a signer, I respectfully request that the person who shot Gilbert be held criminally accountable under the animal cruelty laws."

MINNESOTA FELONY STATUTE 343.213

Gilbert was more than just a dog; he was a cherished member of Melissa Hortman's family, a loyal and loving companion who met a senseless and cruel fate alongside his beloved owners. Regardless of your political affiliation, can we all agree that this is cannot be tolerated or ignored?

In the horrifying incident that claimed the lives of Melissa and Mark Hortman, Gilbert was also shot. The injuries he sustained were so severe that euthanasia became the only humane option for him. As a community, we must not remain silent or passive about the brutality inflicted upon Gilbert. His life mattered, and the suffering he endured should not be dismissed as collateral damage in a broader crime.

It's crucial for the Federal/State prosecutors to publicly recognize the gravity of this act of animal cruelty and levy additional charges related to the injustices against Gilbert. Advocating for these charges isn't solely about justice for an innocent life cut tragically short; it's about creating a safer society that does not tolerate violence against the innocent, human or pets.

Statistics show a troubling connection between animal abuse and violent crime against humans. By holding perpetrators accountable for cruelty against animals, we can help prevent further violence within our communities. It's imperative that we demand accountability and justice not just for Gilbert, but for the principle that each pet's life is valuable and deserves protection.

Join us in urging the prosecutor to include charges of animal cruelty in the prosecution of Gilbert's assailant. This could serve as a vital step toward healing and justice for both the Hortman family and our wider community, sending a clear message that cruelty will not go unpunished. Sign this petition to ensure justice is fully served for Gilbert and his family.
   ______________________________________________________________________________THIS PETITION IS ABOUT RAISING AWARENESS NOT RAISING FUNDS...

PETITION COMMENTS: 
Please please please use the comments to only share love and care and to post tributes.

Let's not focus any further on the one who did the shooting.  Don't talk about affiliations or politics, motives or evil.  Don't even mention the name of the person in custody here. Refrain from speculation or blame or shame.

Please keep the comments kind and allow the justice system to do its job.  That's the whole reason we want the animal cruelty charges to be filed: because Gilbert's life mattered too.

Break the cycle of hatred by channeling your energy into something constructive in honor of Gilbert, and be sure to take care of yourself. 

Go hug your pets and your friends and family a little tighter and bring some positiveness into the world.  We need you to change the narrative and help bring healing when so many are feeling broken.

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF:

How to Mourn the Loss of a Pet Animals

Resource for helping kids deal with trauma

Psychological First Aid   (create free account to download)

UPDATE 6/16/2025
  Reposting note from the adult children of Mark and Melissa Hortman.