In a courtroom full of those who love animals, Aaron Simoneaux was sentenced today by Judge Kent Savoie for brutally killing a dog on New Year's eve.

SWLA Humane Society President Beth Zilbert represented the SWLA Humane Society as well as the many animal coalition partners present in asking the Judge for an appropriate sentence. In doing so, Beth alerted the judge that over 400 signatures had been obtained asking for a severe penalty.  She also quoted statistics detailing how animal abuse relates to domestic violence.  (These statistics are provided below).

Simoneaux was sentenced to 7 years and ordered to attend an 18 month IMPACT bootcamp program as well as receive counseling and achieve his GED.  If Simoneaux fails the IMPACT program, (Intensive Motivational Program of Alternative Correctional Treatment) he will have to serve the entire sentence. At the very least, he will serve 18 months.

The SWLA Humane Society wishes to thank District Attorney John Derossier and his office for their diligent efforts in prosecuting this case.

Judge Savoie and John Derossier both made very positive comments as to the presence of those who attended the sentencing hearing.