In Thomaston Georgia, county seat of Upson, a German Shepherd, named “Chief” was willfully neglected and succumbed to inhumane treatment. Given no water, food, appropriate shelter, and confined to the brutal Georgia heat, trying to escape his surroundings, entangled himself and subsequently died. The owner was charged with a misdemeanor, cruelty to animals Statue #16-12-4 (B). The present law is based on intent, which is subjective in nature. The  change we are petitioning for is the definition of aggravated cruelty. In order to get a felony conviction, the cruelty must be considered aggravated cruelty. This petition is to change the law to be more specific to the definition of aggravated cruelty to include willful neglect.. such as withholding water, not providing adequate shelter from elements, restraints… to include chaining of animals, and not providing proper nutrition. We believe animal owners are responsible for the safety and well being of their pets, and in changing this law we will possibly saves lives of innocent animals and deter irresponsible people from becoming pet owners.