News Summary
Zachary Rollins, 22, has been arrested and charged with the torture of a cat named ‘Bunny’ in Burnside, Kentucky. The cat suffered severe injuries, including bitten ears and broken legs, after Rollins allegedly abused her during a domestic dispute. Veterinary staff reported significant injuries and noted that Bunny was pregnant at the time of the attack. Animal Rescue Group Hope For All Pets Inc. is assisting with her recovery, which will cost about $3,500. Rollins is currently held on a $50,000 bond.
Burnside, Kentucky – A 22-year-old man, Zachary Rollins, has been arrested and charged with the torture of a dog or cat, a Class D felony, following an alleged incident of animal abuse that left a cat named ‘Bunny’ with severe injuries. The incident took place during a reported domestic dispute at a residence in Burnside, Pulaski County.
Authorities responded to a call about domestic violence and discovered Rollins attempting to conceal himself under blankets when they arrived. Investigation into the situation revealed disturbing actions taken against the cat. Rollins allegedly bit off Bunny’s ears, claiming in messages that the cat had bitten him first, which he used to justify his actions.
Veterinary staff at Sheabel Veterinary Hospital reported that Bunny arrived with significant injuries, including infected ear stumps and teeth marks. The examination also revealed that she had sustained two broken legs, one of which was fractured at the elbow. These injuries necessitated immediate medical attention and treatment by the veterinary team.
In addition to the current charges, Rollins faces a separate case concerning the alleged deaths of two other cats, which were reportedly killed either by strangulation or suffocation. These additional allegations raise serious concerns about patterns of animal cruelty associated with the suspect.
Animal Rescue Group Hope For All Pets Inc. has stepped in to assist Bunny during her recovery. It was discovered that Bunny was pregnant at the time of the attack, but subsequent surgery revealed that she was just a few weeks along and had two broken legs, complicating her ability to carry her babies to term. Following surgery, the cat was spayed, and the estimated cost for her recovery is approximately $3,500. The rescue group is currently seeking community donations to support Bunny’s ongoing medical needs.
The severity of this case underscores alarming issues of animal neglect and trauma. Professionals, including Dr. Michelle Jude from Sheabel Veterinary Hospital, have emphasized the importance of acknowledging and addressing the emotional and physical suffering experienced by animals subjected to such treatment.
Rollins is currently being held in the Pulaski County Detention Center, with a bond set at $50,000. As part of his bond conditions, he is subject to random drug testing and prohibited from being around any animals during the legal proceedings.
This case has drawn attention to the broader issue of animal cruelty that affects many communities, prompting discussions on the need for improved measures to protect vulnerable pets and provide resources for their care. The ongoing support for Bunny’s recovery is also a reminder of the community’s role in standing up against violence towards animals.
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Additional Resources
- WTVQ: Lexington Vets Caring for Cat
- Wikipedia: Animal Cruelty
- Kentucky.com: Animal Abuse Case
- Google Search: Zachary Rollins Animal Abuse
- WKYT: Kentucky Man Accused of Animal Abuse
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Animal Welfare
- Fox 56 News: Outrage Over Animal Abuse Case
- Google News: Animal Cruelty Kentucky
- LEX 18: Guilty Pleas in Animal Cruelty Case
- People: Bystander Saves Dog from Abuse
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