ArcaMax

3. Grand Jury Statement: "The American Veterinary Medical Association guidelines state that physical methods of killing animals, such as a gunshot or bolt to the head, can be humane when done correctly. (AVMA Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals, 2013 Ed., at 11-12). When performed properly, the animal may exhibit involuntary movements but is unaware and unable to experience pain. (AVMA Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals, 2013 Ed., at 16). Evidence is insufficient, based on the online photograph alone, to determine whether the animal was killed in a cruel manner."

My comment: How can shooting an arrow through the head of a cat approaching to be petted not be considered cruel? This statement is ridiculous, as well as deceptive.

Here's what the AVMA says about the ruling on their website: "We were surprised by the District Attorney's reference to the AVMA and our Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Animals, 2013 Edition in conveying the June decision of the Austin County Grand Jury in the Kristen Lindsey case. The AVMA was neither consulted nor asked to provide information regarding the case, and we were not aware that the Guidelines would be presented in this way. Based on the statements in the press release, the District Attorney's application of the Euthanasia Guidelines was seriously flawed."

The AVMA elaborates on the website why their euthanasia statement was taken out of context and does not serve to vindicate Lindsey's actions.

This Grand Jury decision is supposed to have no impact on The Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners review regarding whether Lindsey can retain her Texas veterinary license. Now, I wonder.

The Grand Jury's arguments are surprisingly superficial and inaccurate. I can't help but wonder why the AVMA or other experts weren't consulted. For whatever reason, it's clear the Grand Jury just didn't want to prosecute.

I believe if Lindsey had shot a puppy, charges more likely would have been filed. Cats apparently don't rise to that standard, particularly those deemed "nuisance" strays.

Clearly, Austin County just wants this mess to simply go away. However, that doesn't mean the case couldn't be elevated to the office of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.

Given that millions of people around the globe saw the evidence of Lindsey's crime, you'd think felony animal cruelty charges would be a no-brainer. There's nothing alleged about this crime.

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