(Originally written on 07/27/20): There's yet another tale of animal cruelty coming out of central Iowa tonight. The Animal Rescue League of Iowa reported this afternoon that a 49-year-old Des Moines man was arrested and charged with animal abuse, as well as other unspecified charges, in connection to the purposeful injury of a 12-week-old kitten.According to the ARL, several people witnessed Jason Fortney abusing the kitten on this past Saturday. At least one of the witnesses filmed the abusive action and two men quickly stepped up and physically remove the kitten from Fortney. Two other witnesses then brought the kitten to ARL for safety and treatment.
The kitten, now named Willow, is currently under veterinary care at the ARL shelter. The ARL reports that Willow suffered some reddening on her eyes related to the trauma from her abuser, but is otherwise okay. Apparently, a Des Moines Police officer has expressed interest in adoption Willow once her health stabilizes.
Des Moines police arrested Fortney earlier today and have placed his into custody at the Polk County Jail.
Animal abuse is a aggravated misdemeanor in Iowa, punishable by a fine of $625-$6,250 and a minimum of one year in prison.
Updated on 07/30/20: I was looking on Iowa Courts Online this morning and noted that Jason Fortney was also charged with one count of Malicious Prosecution, which doesn't make sense here given the facts that have been made available to the public. I'll keep digging around to find more information about this charge. Malicious Prosecution is a serious misdemeanor in Iowa, which is punishable by a fine of $315-$1,875 and up to one year in prison.