Los Angeles, CA–Today in the Los Angeles County Superior Court in Torrance, Darion K. Hackett (DOB 7-7-1991) pleaded guilty to one felony count Penal Code 597(a) animal cruelty for his abuse and neglect of Bow, an 11-month-old female Calico cat. The arrest is the result of a case investigated by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA).
Bow
Sentencing is deferred pending enrollment in animal cruelty and mental health classes. Within the 18-month deferral period, Hackett must complete a 52-week animal cruelty course, one year of outpatient drug/alcohol counseling, agree to a search/seizure waiver, not break any laws, remain drug-alcohol free, and pay no less than $700 of the restitution amount. If Hackett meets these stipulations, the felony will be reduced to a misdemeanor.
In October 2020, compassionate citizens rescued Bow from a dumpster at a Lawndale apartment building. From subsequent medical examinations, it was clear that Bow suffered from severe injuries including a previous, poorly healed fracture to her right hind leg, and a recent fracture to her left hind leg. Bow also suffered from a dislocation of her right hip, bruising of her lung, broken teeth, and tears and abrasions to her ears.
During the investigation, spcaLA rehabilitated Bow. She underwent surgeries to repair the injuries to her hind legs, and spent five months recovering in foster care. Bow was adopted on February 13, 2021, and lives a happy life with her new family.
spcaLA is the only private animal welfare organization in Los Angeles that is also Law Enforcement. spcaLA Humane Officers hold the same powers of Peace Officers in the state of California when investigating animal cruelty. spcaLA is a non-profit agency that relies on donations for its programs and services, including animal cruelty investigations. To donate, please visit spcaLA.com or call 323-334-4485.