animals of Brevard County and all of Florida. Christine Dawn Abrams was found
guilty of 2 counts of misdemeanor animal cruelty by Brevard County Judge Kelly
McKibben. Abrams was sentenced to a surprising 8 months in jail, 12 months of
probation, community service, $5,000 in fines (the max allowed by law), and
ordered to pay all court costs. Her sentencing was very close to what
Prosecutor Michael Raska requested. While this sentence is not 'the max' sentence, it is a big step in the right direction, not just for the county, but the entire State of Florida. Neglect is not typically taken seriously by Prosecutors and Judges, even though the suffering of a neglected animal is often severe. Typical sentences for cases of neglect in the State of Florida include only probation and maybe a little community service. The sentencing issued by Judge McKibben on the 4th was very comprehensive, and will set a precedent for future cases of neglect.
**You can watch the sentencing online at
http://www.floridatoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008812050327
Look to the right side of the page and scroll down to click on the video. It is the
video of the entire sentencing.
Thank you to everyone that came out on the 4th. We managed to fill the entire courtroom, making each person's presence very important. I especially want to thank everyone that stayed so calm and respectful of the Judge. I know it was very difficult. Further, thank you to those that helped remind others to stay calm. It's important to help each other out when emotions run high so that the media attention stays focused on the case, not 'protesters.
'*Here are other news links to the sentencing:
http://www.floridatoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=200881203007
http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/breakingnews/orl-bk-dog-in-crate-sentence-12-04-08,0,3912559.story
http://www.wftv.com/news/18203006/detail.html#-
NOTE: The fight is not over yet! Abrams has not been remanded to the custody of the Dept of Corrections yet. Defense Attorney Andrew Stine wants a chance to ask the Judge to let Abrams stay out of jail while he appeals the 'motion to suppress the evidence.' The Prosecutor, on the other hand, wants Abrams locked up immediately. On December 16th, both sides will get to present their arguments
to Judge McKibben. It is my understanding that Abrams will either be arrested
that day, or, if the Judge rules in Stine's favor, Abrams will be out on a
bond until the appeals process is over. We'll be out there waving signs no
later than 10am on December 16th, then we will go into the courtroom and
listen quietly to the arguments. I apologize for not getting this email out sooner. I went out of town right after the sentencing day, and I just returned, so I sent this email as soon as I could.
If you have any questions about anything that is going on in this case, please feel free to ask!
Keep Up the Good Fight!!
