A man from Joliet tricked a pit bull dog into taking a firework in his mouth moments before he had lit it. The dog did not survive the incident.
The incident happened on July 7 when Nicholas Garcia, 24, and his friend were lighting some fireworks in an alley when a dog suddenly appeared; the two decided to have some fun with the animal and intentionally tossed a firework in its direction; the dog chased it and picked it up immediately, moments before it went off its mouth.
The dog’s owner, who had finally caught up with his dog during their usual stroll, witnessed the entire incident. The distraught owner claims that Garcia was amused by the situation, before taking off moments after.
Police have filed charges of ‘destruction of property’ against Garcia, who has turned himself in.
We, the undersigned, strongly feel that the Illinois judicial system should file for much tougher charges, because ‘destruction of property’ does not apply in this case. Dogs are family, sentient beings, but judging by these charges it would seem they are just some objects that got destroyed. This is hardly the case. Garcia needs to spend time behind bars after taking the life of an innocent animal that is only guilty of curiosity.
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Mr. Glascow,
Please change the charge of "destrcution of property" to an appropriate charge. This was a purposeful and vicious attack. Please give Garcia and his friend a punishment which fits the crime. This dog was not a piece of property. He was someone's family member. 6 years is not enough, next time it could be a child. Please show the people in your voting jurisdiction who they can count on for justice. Give him the maximum penalty for this atrocious crime.
Update #28 years ago
Thank you to everyone who has signed! **Urgent** Does anyone know who else I could get these signature's to and also what the best way is to get them to the state's attorney? This is my first petition. The signatures won't be useful if I can't get them to the right hands. Please message me with any information. Thank you!
Update #18 years ago
Press Release
July 31, 2015
Statement regarding investigation/charge in Joliet Pit Bull Case
The Will County State’s Attorney’s Office has filed the strongest felony charge possible under Illinois law based upon the evidence that has been obtained by police and prosecutors up to this point. Upon conviction, the felony charge in this case carries a potential penalty of up to six years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
The investigation into this case is ongoing.
