Justice for J.T.
Salem Man Sentenced for Killing Kitten
The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) congratulates the Salem Police Department and the Essex County District Attorney’s Office, as a Salem man was recently sentenced for punching and stabbing a kitten to death in January.
Peter Rice of Salem, pleaded guilty this past week to animal cruelty and carrying a dangerous weapon charges at Salem Superior Court. He was sentenced to two years in jail, followed by three years probation.
While watching his neighbor’s kitten named J.T., Rice told police be began punching and then stabbing the kitten after the animal scratched him while he was playing video games. He then buried the kitten under some leaves in a barrel on a nearby sidewalk.
As the investigation unfolded, ARL Law Enforcement was contacted and provided forensic assistance and expertise during the investigative process.
ARL wishes to again thank the Salem Police Department and Essex County District Attorney’s Office for their perseverance and steadfast commitment to stand up and speak for a defenseless animal who suffered unimaginable cruelty.
Providing Expertise and Support
ARL Law Enforcement works with local, state and federal agencies to investigate animal abuse, cruelty and neglect.
In 2018, ARL investigated cruelty and neglect cases involving nearly 3,000 animals, resulting in 56 prosecutions.
We cannot do this work alone. ARL receives no government grants or public funding and relies on individuals like you to support this important work.