District Attorney Joe D. Gonzales released a statement addressing public concerns regarding the animal cruelty case against 23-year-old Havanah Miller.
"I have read concerns regarding the animal cruelty case against Havanah Miller on social media," stated Gonzales. "I was just as horrified and outraged as others when I saw the video on the news of this defenseless puppy being beaten."
He continued, "Please rest assured that my office and I will do everything in our power to hold this person accountable for her actions. But please also understand that the law affords due process to anyone accused of a crime, even when dealing with the most serious offenders."
Gonzales acknowledged, "With few exceptions, anyone accused of a violent crime is entitled to a bond. Although we recommended an appropriate bond amount, she was released from jail. There were no facts at our disposal to argue that she be held without a bond. This is how the criminal justice system works."
"However, this case has just begun," Gonzales stated. "Know that my prosecutors will recommend that she receive punishment to include anger management, animal owner sensitivity training and other appropriate conditions of community supervision."
Addressing calls for maximum prison time, Gonzales said, "Some have asked that I push for maximum prison time. The defendant has the right to have the court assess punishment after a trial or when pleading to court without a plea agreement. Whether this defendant ever sees any jail time will ultimately be up to the judge where this case is assigned."
Gonzales concluded, "I hear the demands for justice for this innocent puppy. We will do everything we can to advocate for this defenseless puppy and hold this person accountable. All I ask from the community is patience as this case navigates thru the criminal justice system. Thank you for your concerns and comments."
