A dog was burned alive in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Someone poured gasoline over the animal and set it on fire in a residential neighborhood. Witnesses called 911. Firefighters arrived to find the dog engulfed in flames. It did not survive.

This is not just a tragedy. It is a horrifying act of cruelty that demands the strongest possible legal response.

We are calling on Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Tara Jackson and all law enforcement agencies involved to ensure that the individual responsible is arrested, charged, and prosecuted to the fullest extent of Maryland law, including felony aggravated animal cruelty and arson.

This was not neglect or abandonment. This was intentional torture.

Maryland law defines aggravated animal cruelty as a felony when someone intentionally causes serious physical injury or death to an animal in a manner that demonstrates extreme indifference to life. Burning a living creature alive clearly meets that standard. It is a threat not just to animals, but to public safety.

There is well-documented research showing that people who commit acts of severe cruelty toward animals are more likely to engage in violence against humans. This case must be treated as the serious public safety concern it is.

We urge the following actions:

• Full felony charges including aggravated animal cruelty and arson
• No plea deals that reduce the charges below felony level
• Public updates from investigators as the case progresses
• Mental health evaluation and intervention for the perpetrator

This case has shaken the community. People across Prince George’s County and beyond are demanding justice for this innocent animal who suffered and died in unimaginable pain.

The public will not accept silence or leniency. A message must be sent that this kind of cruelty will not be tolerated here.

Please sign this petition to stand for accountability, compassion, and justice. Tell Prince George’s County to prosecute this case to the fullest extent and ensure this never happens again.