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An Arkansas pastor has been arrested and charged with animal cruelty for allegedly trapping and then cruelly drowning two cats. Demand maximum penalties and a permanent cessation of his church duties in this case!
 

According to the West Memphis Police Department, on February 7, 2025, officers responded to the West Memphis Animal Shelter after receiving information that Charles Thessing was committing animal cruelty. An investigation of his residence led to evidence of cruelty in the form of two drowned cats and the tank of water used to drown them.
 

On February 11, Thessing was arrested and charged with two counts of aggravated cruelty to animals. These are Class D felonies in Arkansas and each count could conceivably be punished by six years of prison and $10,000 in fines. Thessing must be imprisoned and fined, then undergo a mental evaluation and treatment. Finally, he must never be allowed around animals again.

The Diocese of Little Rock's bishop announced that Thessing has been suspended from his duties at St. Michael Church and School in West Memphis and Sacred Heart Church in Crawfordsville. This is great news.

His trial is scheduled to begin on May 19, 2025. We will be closely monitoring this case.

Letters to Decision Maker(s) for reference:

Subject: Maximum Sentencing for Pastor Charged With Animal Cruelty

I’m writing to you in support of the maximum prosecution of Charles Thessing who was arrested on February 1, 2025, and charged with two Class D felonies for allegedly drowning at least two cats.

It is alleged that Thessing lured trusting or hungry cats into traps, ignored their terror, and maliciously submerged them in a water tank. The helpless cats thrashed while water flooded their lungs as they gasped for air. Think of their panic, their suffering. Who knows how many cats suffered this horrific fate before the bodies of his latest victims were discovered by law enforcement?

Thessing is a priest who has been indefinitely suspended from his services pending the outcome of this case. He must be held accountable with the maximum prison sentences and fines allowed by law. ​In Arkansas, a Class D felony is punishable by up to 6 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. When you consider that Thessing is facing two charges, it is reasonable to ask for 12 years in prison and $20,000 in fines. Please don’t accept the negotiation of any plea deals. Once out of prison, he should undergo a mental health evaluation and be mandated to participate in a mental health program. Finally, he should not be allowed to interact with any animals ever again.

I will be following this case to adjudication and ask that you share my letter with the presiding judge during the sentencing phase of Thessing’s trial, asking for the punishment outlined.

Thank you for your service.

Sincerely,

Signed

Subject: Maximum Sentencing for Pastor Charged With Animal Cruelty

I am writing to you as one of 250,000 In Defense of Animals supporters who care about the treatment of animals. I just signed the organization’s petition to District Attorney Scott Ellington urging the prosecution of the “Reverend” Charles Thessing for senselessly and heartlessly drowning at least two cats.

In Defense of Animals upholds compassion for all beings as a core value and campaigns to protect animals of all kinds from harm. Programs include faith-based vegan advocacy and an Interfaith Vegan Coalition with over 60 member organizations, including several Catholic organizations such as Catholic Action for Animals and Catholic Concern for Animals.

“Father” Thessing of West Memphis Crawfordsville church has been exposed for his shocking cruelty to cats. In February, the West Memphis Police charged him with two counts of aggravated animal cruelty, a Class D felony. This means he could and should be in prison for 12 years and pay a $20,000 fine.

Two drowned cats and the traps used to capture them were discovered in his residence. Who knows how many other cats were ruthlessly killed and disposed of previously? Whether convicted or acquitted of his charges, the disturbing allegation will unfairly reflect on the Church if he is not disrobed. Failure of the Arch Diocese to act will tarnish the Church with the burden of overcoming public perception while regaining the trust of its parishioners.

It is alleged that Thessing lured trusting or hungry cats into traps, ignored their terror, and maliciously submerged them into a water tank. The helpless cats thrashed while water flooded their lungs as they gasped for air. Think of their panic, their suffering.

Society will not accept Thessing cloaked in a façade of righteousness. He must be held fully accountable and be mandated to participate in a mental health program and be removed from his position or laicized from the clerical state.

I appreciate the sensitivity of the decision you must make and trust you will act justly.

Sincerely,

Signed

This alert is no longer active, but here for reference. Please click here to take action.