Jovon Hawkins, a 25-year-old resident of Washington, D.C., has pleaded guilty to felony animal cruelty charges following the death of a dog named Appa. The incident occurred on May 27, 2024, at City Dogs, a dog day care and boarding facility in Washington, D.C., as announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin, Jr.
The government's evidence reveals that two local residents had boarded their 4-year-old Shih Tzu mix, Appa, at City Dogs over the Memorial Day weekend in 2024. On the evening of May 27th, Hawkins was alone with the dogs when he cornered Appa and another dog on a bed. After one of the dogs barked and fled, Hawkins moved the bed with his foot and kicked Appa. He then stomped on Appa before kicking him again. The dog died that night from blunt force trauma.
Hawkins admitted to his actions in court on March 3, 2025. Judge Robert Salerno has scheduled sentencing for May 5, 2025. Hawkins could face up to five years in prison.
The case was investigated by the Washington Humane Society and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Hanley.
