We want to share an important update following the recent press release from the City of Garden City regarding the pending case.

The pretrial hearing is scheduled for April 8 at 8:30 AM before Judge Tollefson. This stage of the process is primarily procedural; attorneys will be discussing charges, evidence, and potential motions or plea agreements. Members of the public typically do not speak during this hearing.

However, your presence still matters.

We will be gathering peacefully outside the Ada County Courthouse on April 8 to show that our community is paying attention and that this case matters. A respectful, visible turnout sends a strong message that animal cruelty will not be ignored.

What to expect and how you can help:

- ✔ Attend the hearing or gather outside the courthouse respectfully 

- ✔ Continue sharing and signing the petition (we are nearing 5,000 signatures) 

- ✔ Email the prosecutor to express support for pursuing the case to the fullest extent of the law 

- ✔ Begin preparing written community impact statements for later stages 

If the case proceeds, there will be an opportunity to be heard particularly at sentencing, where community members may submit impact statements and, in some cases, speak in court.

💡 April 8, a strong and respectful community presence, combined with nearly 5,000 petition signatures, can have real influence on how seriously this case is handled.

📍 Peaceful gathering: Ada County Courthouse 

🗓 Date: April 8 

⏰ Time: 8:00AM; hearing 8:30 room TBD Judge Tollefson

Thank you for continuing to stand together, stay engaged, and advocate for accountability and stronger protections for animals in our community.