FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  March 30, 2012

The Seattle Humane Society urges prosecution to the fullest extent of the law and the stiffest penalty possible for a man charged with using a hatchet in an attempt to murder his neighbor’s Golden Retriever.

Ricky Lee Knowles of Orting, Wash., is charged with animal cruelty and trespassing for allegedly luring a 3-year-old dog named Kona into his garage using treats laced with rat poison and brutally torturing the animal. Neighbors called 911 after hearing the dog’s cries. Police arrived on scene to find the dog on the floor of Knowles’ garage with a wire tied around his neck, a crushed skull, a broken jaw and blood-filled eyes.
Luckily, Kona survived and is already walking again thanks to the team of doctors at Sumner Veterinary Hospital. 

Knowles could face up to five years and/or a $10,000 fine if he is found guilty of this horrendous crime. Seattle Humane urges Pierce County Prosecutor Mark Lindquist to seek the highest penalties possible in this case. 

Knowles pleaded not guilty last week to charges of first degree animal cruelty, theft and trespassing. He was released from Pierce County jail on $20,000 bail. Knowles' pretrial date is set for Pierce County Superior Court on April 5 at 1:00 p.m. and his trial date is set for May 14 at 8:30 a.m.

When it comes to animal welfare, your voice is needed! If you suspect that an animal is being neglected or abused, please contact your local animal control agency. Animal control agencies are the only organizations empowered to investigate and enforce animal cruelty or abuse cases. Information provided to your local animal control agency is confidential. A list of local animal control agencies can be found on our website at seattlehumane.org/services/emergencies/cruelty.