Sentencing for Scruffy's Killers (on Friday Sept. 11, 1998)

On June 27, 1997, four boys allegedly tortured, burned and beat to death a 12-year old Yorkshire Terrier named Scruffy.

Admittedly acting out of "boredom", the perpetrators recorded the entire killing and distributed the 6-minute videotape to their friends.

Jose Gutierrez, age 17
Admitted to videotaping the incident.
Convicted: animal cruelty, felony arson
2 years probation and psychiatric evaluation

Marcus Rodriguez, age 18
Convicted: animal cruelty, 1 year county jail.
Convicted: felony arson, 2 years, 3 months prison.
Eligible for parole after 2 years.

Richard Golubski, age 20
Admitted in court to choking and pouring a flammable liquid on the dog.  Denied further involvement.
Convicted: animal cruelty, felony arson
2 years probation and psychiatric evaluation.

Lance Arsenalt, age 21 "the Leader"
Convicted: animal cruelty, 1 year county jail.
Convicted: felony arson, 1 year, 10 months prison.
Eligible for parole after 2 years.

In each case, the more significant charge was felony arson.  Animal cruelty is only  punishable by a maximum 1 year jail time, according to Kansas law.

For an excellent (though disturbing) recount of the whole story, the subsequent court trial, and how you may become involved, please visit Scruffy's Story, published by Luvcatz.

Editor's note: Anyone concerned about animal abuse must visit this site as well:
The Convicted Animal Abuser Database

^{Back to Article}