Former Owner of Abused Cat Sentenced to Jail

The former owner of a gray-hair tabby cat who was repeatedly from the has been sentenced to 180 days in jail, according to Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control officials.

The defendant in the case was identified as 18-year-old Willis So of La Puente. He accepted a plea deal at his pre-preliminary hearing in El Monte Court on Dec 20.

So also received 36 months summary probation and ordered to pay a $1,000 fine. He must further perform 300 hours of community service and pay $100 in restitution.

"Lily, now re-named Pepper by her new owner, is acclimating nicely and recovering on schedule, according to their family veterinarian,” Marcia Mayeda, director of the agency, said in a press release. 

“Our officer made a home visit to the new owner, which revealed a loving and safe environment for her. She had it rough in her last home….she is a deserving little girl,” Mayeda said.

Authorities said , which they said happened quite often. He punched the animal, slammed her against the wall and threw her across the room.

The LA County Department of Animal Care and Control is asking the public to call their local animal control agency if they suspect animal cruelty in their neighborhood.

Anyone interested in adopting a pet should call the Baldwin Park Animal Shelter at 626-962-3577, visit its location at 4275 Elton St., or go to the shelter's Web site for more information.