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Sentence given for pit bull cruelty
Published Tuesday, September 8, 2009
A Clanton man was convicted of two counts of cruelty to a dog or cat second degree in Chilton County District Court Thursday, Assistant District Attorney C.J. Robinson confirmed.
Justin Lunceford, 20, was sentenced to a total 60 days in jail, in addition to more than $1,000 in fines and 80 hours of community service at the Chilton County Humane Society. Lunceford also faces two years probation.
On July 16, Clanton Animal Control Officer Chris Whittle and Chilton County Humane Society Director Joe Murphy responded to an address on Highway 31 in regard to several complaints.
While talking to the residents, Murphy observed two American Pit bull Terriers with old, severe, infected injuries to their heads and faces.
“The injuries were consistent with those received in a dog fight,” Murphy recalled. “I also observed that many of the other 15-20 dogs appeared to be malnourished and underweight.”
The Chilton County Sheriff’s Department was contacted, and Deputy S. Aldridge responded to take a report.
Lunceford was contacted via phone and agreed to surrender the two injured dogs to the humane society. He also agreed to take the remaining dogs to a veterinarian for an exam and necessary treatment.
The two injured dogs were described as “Fast Lane,” a black, adult male; and “Mama Dog,” a tan and white, adult female. Fast Lane was reportedly covered with puncture wounds on the face and head. He also was described as very thin and had a large amount of hair loss due to skin disease. Mama Dog had a large infected wound to the top of her head and face, and was also extremely thin.
According to Murphy, no medical care had been provided to the dogs. Both dogs were examined by a local veterinarian.
“Due to the severity of their injuries, the poor physical condition of both dogs, and the dog aggression that the dogs exhibited, the decision to euthanize them was made,” Murphy said.
While the injuries were consistent with dog fighting, there was no hard evidence that any illegal dog fighting had taken place. Within a week after the initial response, most of the other dogs had been moved off the site.
Murphy thanked Robinson and District Judge Rhonda Hardesty for their assistance in the case.
“This kind of abuse happens with alarming frequency,” Murphy said. “We’re not going to tolerate this treatment.”
Lunceford defended himself in the case.
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Comments
Posted by travlr423 (anonymous) on September 8, 2009 at 9:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Im not saying this individual is guilty. but if he was or is, how can you defend animal cruelty. anyone who would choose to fight an animal should be thrown in a cage to fight for their own life. And if they were fortunate to survive I guarntee they would walk out with a different point of veiw. or at least some compassion.
Posted by rmims404 (Roger Mims) on September 8, 2009 at 10:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm not saying that animals are human or anything but God made them and mankind is expected to care for them, not abuse them. Those of us who have pets that we love and care for could not imagine how someone could abuse a defenseless animal. Dog fighting is a cancer on society that should be stopped and those people caught supporting such activities should be made an example of like Michael Vick.
Posted by mack13 (anonymous) on September 8, 2009 at 10:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm an easy going guy, but the subject of animal cruelty really
gets my blood to boil.
If someone owns an animal, they have the responsibility for the
well being of that animal. My wife and I have 2 dogs and a cat
that we love dearly. We give them regular meals, vet checks, and
lots of attention. In return, we have happy pets that are enjoying
the benefit of a healthy home environment. We get lots of
snuffles and puppy kisses which is all part of it.
Anyone who knowingly mistreats an animal by forcing them to
fight, not feeding them, or other abuse, should be locked up in
prison and learn about pain and suffering first hand.
That's just my .02
mack
Posted by Lifeinthecountry (anonymous) on September 9, 2009 at 6:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I look into the big brown eyes of my dog, full of trust and hope, and wonder what kind of evil would prompt dog fighting?
I'd be interested in some follow up info on this story. What does the reporter mean when he said "Within a week after the initial response, most of the other dogs had been moved off the site."? Are they being taken care of?
Posted by bamagirl77 (anonymous) on September 9, 2009 at 7:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Several months ago, we called the humane society for a family that had moved and left behind about twelve dogs. These dogs were not being fed and were getting in other people's garbage and were basically starving. They assured us they would check into it. They never did. Looks like you have to fight dogs for it to be considered cruelty. Leaving them behind to starve isn't bad enough I guess.
Posted by SECorBust (anonymous) on September 9, 2009 at 8:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
So did they just throw the book at him for animal cruelty and not bring up charges for dog fighting because they had no real proof? That's good police work.
Each case is handled individually and no comparison can be made. What happened to Jessica is an unfortunate trajedy. My prayers go out to you. I understand the anger & hatred, but there is no rational reason for why it was Jessica who died. It is completely unfair. I'm sorry, but nothing will make it fair.
Posted by SECorBust (anonymous) on September 9, 2009 at 9:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
New dog owner here. We got a Weimeraner, she's loving and excitable, but still a puppy at 1 3/4 years old. I've spent more on that dog than I would have dreamed. The vet will come up with all sorts of charges for ya, you name it. You can spend thousands depending on how dupable you are, but there are some things that you should not deny your dog - heart worm shots etc.
These animals are something else. They'll try and please you and love you no matter how much trouble(spankings) they get into.
We had dogs when I was a kid that were yard dogs, and not real affectionate or cared for that particularly well, and they were more like goats, pigs, or whatever else. Luna is a part of our family and there's a bond that wasn't there with the dogs that I'd had as a kid, So I think I understand the ways that a lot of people view dogs.
You should treat dogs with much the same respect that you would treat kids. I would have like to see Vick go unsigned. I guess their standards aren't that high. A lot of people think he has repaid his debt and should be allowed to continue making millions in the Pros. I just can't see how you could ever do that to an animal and have conviction, remorse, and be a changed person without it being more evident.
Posted by southernpride (anonymous) on September 9, 2009 at 10:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I don't understand how anyone can be cruel to an animal. Cruelty to people is just a heartbeat away. For those that don't think so, research serial killers. Most sarted out abusing animals.
I have a neighbor that has a female German Sheperd. Each year when she is in heat, it is like a zoo in our neighborhood. Every male dog for miles is there. The poor dog tries to fight them off but tono avail. To me this is animal cruelty itself. However, I understand from the Humane Society there is nothing that can be done. You would think the owner would have the dog fixed or at least pen it up!
Posted by CrimusK8T (anonymous) on September 9, 2009 at 10:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"Lunceford defended himself in the case."
What's that old saying about a person who stands as his own attorney?
____________________________
How sad,and sick.
I do not understand how someone can mistreat animals.
That's a special kind of evil.
Posted by nonexpert (anonymous) on September 9, 2009 at 11:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)
A few months ago we adopted an abused dog. He was so thin we could count his ribs and some other bones. It was hard to pick him up, it was like trying to pick up a slinky, his skin just slid on his frame. He had frost bite and other signs of physical abuse. He continues to exhibit behaviors that are related to the horrible abuse he suffered (ie) curling in a corner at loud voices, but we are working on them. It just breaks my heart to think of what he must have suffered, and he is such a wonderful pet. We love him so much and he loves us even more. What a wonderful pet his previous owners could have had.
Posted by SECorBust (anonymous) on September 9, 2009 at 2:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It's nice to get a way from small town politics, but then again there are some of the same problems elsewhere and worse.......
My neighbor has a rescue dog. He is also a weim. Chance has come a long way in a few months and is now looking great, I'm happy to report. There are lots of pure bred dogs at for rescue and at the pound. Most people get the dog and just don't give these dogs the time and attention that they deserve and end up having to get rid of them.
Posted by Tommy (anonymous) on September 9, 2009 at 2:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Growing up in the country, especially during the spring time you could see and hear 2 dogs fighting (not made to fight by humans but just over territory or LOVE) and I can't think of a more horrible sound or sight. I would run to make them quit fighting even if they were not my dogs (which usually they weren't because I never had many dogs). I don't know how anybody could intentionally want to make them fight and listen to that brutality.
Posted by Lifeinthecountry (anonymous) on September 9, 2009 at 2:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This is a quote from the American Humane Society:
"Understanding The Link® Between Animal Abuse and Family Violence
What Is The Link?
A correlation between animal abuse, family violence and other forms of community violence has been established. Child and animal protection professionals have recognized this link, noting that abuse of both children and animals is connected in a self-perpetuating cycle of violence. When animals in a home are abused or neglected, it is a warning sign that others in the household may not be safe. In addition, children who witness animal abuse are at a greater risk of becoming abusers themselves."
Posted by getbizi (anonymous) on September 9, 2009 at 4:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm pretty familiar with the breed. They are very sweet toward people, contrary to what's reported in the news. I am not a PETA freak, but this incident should be dealt with justly.
Posted by Lifeinthecountry (anonymous) on September 9, 2009 at 5:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Is it about this story? Can you say it without profanity, because my kids read these letters. Thanks.
Posted by CrimusK8T (anonymous) on September 9, 2009 at 5:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
JUDGE SIBLEY REYNOLDS
I have heard people sing his praises...but I wouldnt.
Posted by travlr423 (anonymous) on September 9, 2009 at 7:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I wish i could catch one of these comments by justiceforjessica before they are deleted. I have no clue what she is talking about but it must be juicy.
someone please fill me in.
Posted by travlr423 (anonymous) on September 9, 2009 at 8:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Rickey,
what do most of these threads have in common with the articles written? we only use the article or topic as an ice breaker for what we really want to spew off. myself i like it when it gets all distorted and we all get really off balance of the issues. I enjoy seeing some of these guys play with others emotions, and how it takes very little to over stimulate some peoples emotions. its almost as if they're about to short circuit and blow a fuse.
Posted by travlr423 (anonymous) on September 9, 2009 at 9 p.m. (Suggest removal)
(this comment was removed by the author)
Posted by travlr423 (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 12:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
MyAngelJessica, could you elaborate a little further with a more detailed description of the event and your reference to the term click (connection) with the Judge.
Posted by CrimusK8T (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 4:48 a.m.
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by sdawkins (Stephen Dawkins) on September 10, 2009 at 8:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Please stay on topic to this story or comments will be frozen or removed.
Posted by travlr423 (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 10:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)
JusticeforJessica, I would have to agree with you that the news paper tries to shadow many opinions by deleting them. And as far as S. Dawkins implying to stay within the topic if that's the real issue here there would be very few comments to exist in these threads. Granted there are some comments made that need to be deleted. However it does belong to the C.A. and i guess they monitor as they see fit. But at the same time if you are invited to voice your public opinion it would also appear to me that they may have certain obligations to the user concerning the right of free speech. After all even though it is privately owned it was created for the purpose of a public forum and therefore would appear to me to be subject to certain rights and responsibilities by both the owner and the end user. And it should be my responsibility as user to assume any risk or liability or damage to another that may result from any statement i make.
Posted by travlr423 (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 10:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
JusticeforJessica, I have not been able to read any of your comments as they have all been deleted before i could read them. all i have picked up on is that you lost a family member in an accident. And although i dont know the details i can understand your frustration toward the legal system. Your opinions concerning certain branches of the legal system and certain individuals within the legal system are shared by many more than you realize, perhaps a closer related topic to your circumstance will exist in the future and with careful phrasing you can get your point across and be heard. I am very sorry for your loss and the pain it has left in your families path but one thing for certain one day God has promised to make every wrong right and leave no stone unturned.
Posted by November162000 (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 10:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)
You nailed it travlr. Never, not once, has sdawkins threatened to freeze or delete comments because the comments were getting off topic. Almost every story's comments get off topic and it's never been a problem until now. When comments turn to their darling circuit judge Reynolds, then all of a sudden they get defensive. I've seen that happen one other time when the comments began heating up toward Reynolds. Stephen, are y'all scared of Reynolds, in love with him, or is he a hunting or fishing buddy? Which is it? Why the change in comment procedure precedent when it concerns Reynolds? Enguiring minds really want to know.
JusticeforJessica, you didn't do anything wrong. Keep standing up for what you believe to be the right thing! And remember, election time is coming, eventually, and you will have the right to campaign for the circuit judge candidate of your choice. Have your facts together and let your voice be heard during the campaign process. The truth is usually the best way to hurt a politician, they can't stand it, and Reynolds is just a politician like all the rest.
Posted by travlr423 (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 1:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I have myself have witnessed great injustices inflicted on people at the hands of our Judges and attorneys, But i know one day soon they will stand before the Great Judge of Life and they also will accept judgment for the decisions they have made as a result or their power and authority. There will be no prosecuting or defence attorneys to employ to their aid only JUDGEMENT concerning every word of the Law and God is the law and the Judge of the Law. We will all stand before him to give account for our deeds here on earth and regardless of our title here we will all be on the same level in that hour.
Posted by CrimusK8T (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 1:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I for one am glad that I am not the only one who (ahem)thinks that "justice" was NOT served in "this case" (cough).
I mean, "dog fighting" is just crazy,its not difficult to "do the right thing",and treat them respectfully when they "come before you seeking fair,and just treatment".
Its crazy that this man would totally disrespect (cough,sneeze,cough) "animals"l,and treat them so poorly,when they are only seeking loyalty,and a fair shake.(ahem,ahem)
Posted by travlr423 (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 1:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Speaking of topics I find it very strange that the C.A. was involved in an automobile crash a couple of weeks back and it has not made its way to the headlines as yet. As they normally cover even minor accidents involving only one vehicle I'm just wondering why they would not cover such an incident involving three where at least two victims were transported to hospitals with injuries. maybe the C.A. can enlighten us on the details and update us regarding the condition and seriousness of the injured victims. or maybe they ran it and i missed it.
Posted by CrimusK8T (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 1:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
travlr- before it gets deleted- I wanted you to know I read the above and I too wonder why it didnt make it into the paper.
Posted by travlr423 (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 1:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
you are right Crimus, someone should tie this guy behind their bicycle and drag him down the pavement and then maybe some poor mistreated dog will come to lick his wounds with compassion and they will become great and loyal friends and it will be a happy ending. Assuming he is guilty of fighting,starving or what ever the case may be.
Posted by travlr423 (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 1:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Crimus, That is a legitimate fair and impartial news worthy inquiry in that comment let them delete it.
Posted by travlr423 (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 2:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Crimus, after reading your comment for the second time it appears that you were cleverly disguising your comment if that be the case, you are still correct.
Posted by travlr423 (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 3:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The way i see it if they want to stop the comments its their property let do what the want. but if i was that scared of the truth or who the truth reflects on i would be in another buisness altogether.
And as far as rating Sibley Reynolds as a Judge or as a person of just character and dignity he is rating his own self with the people and how they feel about him.
Posted by travlr423 (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 3:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
In fact maybe the citizens of Chilton county should start their own public forum. So every citizen has an equal opportunity and right for their voice to be heard. Some issues may seem insignificant to some while they may be very important to others especially the ones that just want to express their views and opinions.
Posted by November162000 (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 3:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
kw: Yep, I remember when they got their (The Advertisers') panties all up in a wad when Reynolds was held in a less than desireable light. It sure makes me wonder why they get so defensive when it comes to him but will let others get thouroughly thrashed by you and me and others, but let the topic of judge Reynolds come up and they run for the hills and delete comments and even delete commentors. So, what's the deal sdawkins?
Posted by travlr423 (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 3:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Maybe the C.A. should stop and think about who supports this news paper and is responsible for its existence. Without the citizens they have no business.
Posted by travlr423 (anonymous) on September 10, 2009 at 4:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Have you ever thought about having your own circular printed and passed out. It seems to me that as long as you had all your court transcripts and facts to back up your message and as long as any documented material was public information that could be obtained by any person of interest you would be within your legal rights. Of course i would consult an atty. or some legal expert to ensure i was not doing anything illegal. I have found that through perseverance there is always someone who is willing to air or bring your story to the public eye. And it may very well be the case that with your particular circumstances the laws may need to be addressed so this ending is not the ending for someone else facing the same tragedy of events.