Judge Sentences Defendant in 3 Cases

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On Sept. 25, a DC Superior Court judge sentenced a defendant for killing a cat.

Antonio Jacobs, 37, pleaded guilty to a bail violation, cruelty to animals and a Civil Protection Order (CPO) violation. As part of a plea agreement with the prosecution, his simple assault and unlawful entry charges were dropped, as was his other cruelty to animals charge. 

Judge Robert Okun sentenced Jacobs to serve 15 months for cruelty to animals and 90 days for the bail violation. The sentences will run consecutively.  Jacobs was given 30 days for the CPO violation. That sentence will run concurrent to the other two. 

“He intentionally stomped on the cat’s head,” a witness said. “He’s a very violent man, he needs some help”  

Jacobs’ attorney, Isaac Kunnirickal asked Judge Okun to put Jacobs on probation. 

“Right now giving him any additional time in jail is counter-intuitive,” said Kunnirickal. “He has mental and physical health issues.”

During the hearing, Jacobs said he loves animals and what happened with the cat was just an accident, he did not mean to kill it.

“You say you love animals, but you express it in unusual ways,” said Judge Okun. 

Jacobs must also comply with several stay away orders.