My name is Eric, and I run I Love Every Dog because animals rescued from one nightmare should never be dropped into another. In March, investigators discovered more than 300 animals (dogs, cats, a pig, a rabbit, a goose, and two goats) living in severely neglected conditions at a Lake Hughes, California, property operating as a rescue called Rock 'N' Pawz. Many of the animals had longstanding injuries and were emaciated.
On September 18, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office filed 35 counts against the rescue's operator, 57-year-old Christine De Anda, including 12 felony counts of animal cruelty and 2 felony counts of grand theft of labor, on top of 21 additional misdemeanor counts. If convicted on every count, De Anda faces up to 24.5 years in state prison.
An organization that calls itself a rescue and then lets 300 animals suffer in neglect is not a rescue. It is a hoarding operation hiding behind a good name, and it deceived everyone who trusted it with donations and volunteer hours.
I am asking Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman to pursue the maximum sentence on all 35 counts and to seek a lifetime prohibition on Christine De Anda owning, operating, or working for any animal rescue or shelter again.
Please sign and tell District Attorney Nathan Hochman that Los Angeles County must hold fake rescues to the same standard as any other abuser.
