A family home video was turned over to the ASPCA in Suffolk County showing rabbits beaten, skinned alive and attacked by a pet dog.

The video was supposed to be a family celebration even titled "Our Vacations" filmed for visiting relatives from Italy.

The video lead to the arrest of Matteo, age 49 and his son, Rosario, age 23 on February 12, 2003

The video shows Matteo Loverso who live at 115 Connecticut Ave and Rosario Loverso, who lives at 33 Clinton Ave, taking live large brown rabbits from boxes, holding some by their hind legs and giving them karate chops.  One of the rabbits regained consciousness while being held and skinned and was seen screaming.  Instead of killing it, they continued to skin it.  Another rabbit was dropped on the floor and the family's MiniPin named "Cujo" was allowed to attack it.  The video shows this rabbit with a broken back trying to drag itself away and looking to the people to help it.  Instead people were heard laughing and you could hear "Go ahead Cujo, go get it".

The Loverso's each were charged with 1 count of cruelty to animals, a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail.  The charges were brought about for the way the rabbits were killed. 

The District Attorney's office is looking into filing felony animal cruelty charges but because NY animal cruelty provisions don't apply to animals raised for food this might be difficult to prosecute.  Also being looked into is NY's Agriculture and Markets laws #351 Article 26 regarding engaging animals in fighting or amusement and to permit such activity to occur on premises under one's control.  If found guilty a sentence of up to 4 years in prison may be imposed.

Update December 2003:

The Loverso's plead guilty to misdemeanor animal cruelty and where given 40 hours of community service.  In addition they received 3 years probation and a fine of $350.00.

Reference

House Rabbit Society

AR News

ASPCA

NY Daily News

Newsday

The Animal Spirit Newsletter