LITCHFIELD, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--In a decision that has shocked animal advocates nationwide, a Connecticut couple charged with severe animal abuse, have been granted accelerated rehabilitation, a diversionary program that may lead to the dismissal of charges if completed successfully. This ruling follows their indictment for starving their retired racing greyhound, Midnite.
According to Dr. Kathryn Panigrahi, DVM, Midnite endured extreme emaciation, indicative of prolonged confinement and starvation. “The level of muscle wasting and the infected wounds Midnite suffered from laying on hard surfaces highlight the severe neglect he experienced.” Midnite, found in March 2024, was discovered by a Good Samaritan on the road in a near-death state. Regional animal control took him in, diagnosing him with critical emaciation and dehydration, resulting from months of starvation.
The State’s Attorney acknowledged that the neglect and mistreatment would have worsened had Midnite not escaped. Despite the gravity of the abuse, the judge's hands were tied by legal constraints, leading to a misdemeanor—rather than a felony—charge with accelerated rehabilitation for the first-time offenders. This decision has ignited outrage among animal rights advocates.
The “Justice for Midnite” campaign, which mobilized over 60 supporters from multiple states, is calling for justice and legal reform. Christine Johnson, President, and Founder of Greyhound Rescue & Rehab (GRR), condemned the court's ruling: “The treatment of Midnite was a gross injustice. It is heartbreaking to consider the trauma he endured. This case should have warranted felony charges.”
The court ruling allows the couple to avoid a criminal record upon completion of their probation, which includes paying $5,200 in restitution, 100 hours of community service, mental health evaluations, and refraining from owning animals for two years. However, if complaint, charges will be dismissed in 2026, and they will be permitted to adopt again.
The “Justice for Midnite” campaign believes this leniency is inadequate and is advocating for more stringent penalties and preventative measures. GRR is rallying supporters to use the hashtag #JusticeForMidnite to demand legislative action to prevent similar injustices.
Johnson vows to push for judicial reform to ensure that severe animal abuse cases receive the appropriate legal consequences. “We must fight to ensure no other animal endures what Midnite went through,” Johnson emphasized.
For more information or to support the campaign visit www.greyhoundrescuerehab.org
