I am writing this petition to bring attention to the urgent need for the Burleigh County District Attorney's office in North Dakota to take immediate action against animal abusers in the Menoken kitten case. Animal abuse is a grave issue that demands our attention and swift justice.

As a resident of North Dakota, I have witnessed firsthand the distressing cases of animal cruelty that often go unpunished. It breaks my heart to see innocent animals suffer at the hands of heartless individuals who escape accountability due to insufficient legal measures.

Animal abuse not only inflicts unimaginable pain and suffering on defenseless creatures but also poses a serious threat to public safety. Studies have shown that individuals who engage in animal cruelty are more likely to commit violent crimes against humans as well. By allowing these abusers to go unpunished, we are perpetuating a cycle of violence within our community.

According to North Dakota's statue, located below, swift and humane euthanasia must be performed to be excluded from statute. Euthanasia by grain shovel does not constitute a humane euthanasia. The video of the incident clearly shows the kitten suffered not only from improper veterinary care, but from multiple blows to the neck to severe its head from body. You can see the kitten squirming and yelling in pain for the duration of abuse. The incident was recorded and shared on social media as people in video were laughing at the incident. 

ND STATUTE: § 36-21.2-03. Animal cruelty--Definition--Exemptions--Penalty

1. Any person that intentionally engages in animal cruelty is guilty of a class C felony.

2. For purposes of this chapter, “animal cruelty” means:

a. Breaking an animal's bones;

b. Causing the prolonged impairment of an animal's health;

c. Mutilating an animal; or

d. Physically torturing an animal.

3. The following do not constitute violations of this section:

a. Any usual and customary practice in:

(1) The production of food, feed, fiber, or ornament, including all aspects of the livestock industry;

(2) The boarding, breeding, competition, exhibition, feeding, raising, showing, and training of animals;

(3) The sport of rodeo;

(4) Animal racing;

(5) The use of animals by exhibitors licensed under the Animal Welfare Act, 7 U.S.C. 2131, et seq.;

(6) Fishing, hunting, and trapping;

(7) Wildlife management;

(8) The culinary arts;

(9) Lawful research and educational activities; and

(10) Pest, vermin, predator, and animal damage control, including the disposition of wild animals that have entered structures or personal property;

b. Any action taken by an individual against an animal that is attacking or is about to attack a human, a companion animal, or livestock;

c. The humane or swift destruction of an animal for cause; and

d. Services provided by or under the direction of a licensed veterinarian

According to data from national organizations such as the Humane Society of the United States and ASPCA, North Dakota has been ranked among states with weaker animal protection laws and inadequate penalties for offenders. This lack of legal consequences sends a message that animal abuse is acceptable or inconsequential.

It is crucial for our District Attorney's office in Burleigh County, ND, to prioritize cases involving animal cruelty and ensure that perpetrators face appropriate charges and penalties under existing laws. By doing so, we can send a clear message that our community will not tolerate any form of mistreatment towards animals.

Furthermore, numerous jurisdictions across the country have successfully implemented stricter legislation against animal abusers with positive outcomes. These measures include harsher penalties, mandatory counseling or education programs for offenders, and improved reporting systems for identifying potential cases promptly.

By signing this petition today, you are urging the team at the Burleigh County District Attorney's office to take immediate action against animal abusers in the Menoken kitten case. We demand that they allocate adequate resources, establish specialized units to handle animal cruelty cases, and work closely with local law enforcement agencies and animal welfare organizations to ensure justice is served.

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of innocent animals who cannot speak for themselves. Let us stand united against animal abuse and demand justice for the voiceless victims in Burleigh County, North Dakota.

Thank you, 

The Citizens of North Dakota and beyond