After a shocking case of cruelty in Stuart, Florida — where Donald Stickens strangled and repeatedly punched his girlfriend’s nine-year-old golden retriever, Stella, in the head — the abuser has now received the maximum sentence of five years in state prison, according to local news.
“The Martin County Sheriff’s Office wants to be absolutely clear: we will not tolerate any form of animal cruelty, abuse, or abandonment,” the Martin County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) wrote in a Facebook post. “Every allegation will be fully investigated, and when evidence proves a crime, the abuser will be arrested and prosecuted.”
In August 2024, a doorbell camera captured Stickens suspending Stella in the air by her leash outside his apartment, dropping her to the ground, then lifting her up again by her neck and striking her numerous times before entering the residence.
Although Stella wasn’t examined until over a week later — too late to show bruising — experts concluded she probably suffered a compromised airway and blunt force trauma. She was also found to have a torn knee ligament, and witnesses noted that Stickens had abused her before.
As for how Stella is doing now, MCSO shared a photo of her at the beach and stated that she is safe with her guardian and in good condition.
Lady Freethinker is grateful that Stella is doing well and to the judge for delivering the maximum sentence allowable, sending a strong message that animal cruelty will not be tolerated.
