The Animal Health Department (DSA) in Mayarí imposed a fine of 1,500 Cuban pesos and issued a warning to a resident named Manolo, after concluding he was solely responsible for the death of a cat named Luna. The Animal Welfare Network of Cuba (BAC) shared this information through a statement on social media.
"It was determined that the only individual accountable for Luna's death was one of the neighbors, Manolo, with no evidence found to suggest that other neighbors, Mabel and Alexander, had any involvement," the statement read. BAC noted that only one eyewitness was interviewed during the investigation, as "the other did not appear." The organization views the outcome as a partial victory but clearly insufficient.
"The paltry sum of the fine, compared to the severity of the assault on a defenseless creature resulting in death, underscores the urgent need to amend the Decree Law to include animal cruelty as a criminal offense in the Penal Code," BAC emphasized.
Lourdes Elena, Luna's caretaker, plans to pursue further legal action to ensure that other individuals involved are also held accountable. "The investigations were superficial as not all witnesses familiar with the incident were examined," the statement added.
The case sparked widespread reactions on social media, with users criticizing the fine as a "mockery," "inadequate," and "disrespectful." Some users pointed out that "failing to appear as a witness" should also be considered a violation, while others lamented that "Cuba's animal protection law is ineffective."
Luna's death was publicly reported at the end of April, when her owner accused three neighbors of throwing the cat from a third-floor window and beating her to death. This accusation was initially shared on social media and supported by BAC.
Subsequently, the accuser faced charges of alleged defamation, prompting further criticism towards the authorities for their handling of the case. The incident remains a hot topic among animal rights advocates, who are calling for stricter penalties and legal reforms to ensure animal cruelty is recognized as a criminal offense in Cuba.
Animal Cruelty Laws and Reactions in Cuba
What was the outcome of the investigation into Luna's death?
The investigation concluded that Manolo was the sole individual responsible for Luna's death, resulting in a fine of 1,500 Cuban pesos and a warning. There was no evidence implicating other neighbors.
Why did BAC consider the fine insufficient?
BAC viewed the fine as insufficient because the amount did not reflect the severity of the cruelty involved in Luna's death. They argue that animal cruelty should be recognized as a criminal offense within the Cuban Penal Code.
What further actions are being taken by Luna's caretaker?
Lourdes Elena, Luna's caretaker, intends to continue legal efforts to hold all involved parties accountable, as she believes the investigations were not thorough enough.