Animal abuse is a huge problem in this country and part of the reason for this is that the punishment is often simply just a fine. There must be stiffer penalties for the abuse of animals in order to deter future offenders.

The video taken by two juveniles in St. Louis County, Missouri is a clear example of such abuse. These young men deliberately took an animal and beat it while taking video of the attack and must be brought to justice and sentenced to more than just a fine. What is to deter others from abusing an animal if the biggest punishment they will have to fear is paying some money? This is not a speeding violation, it is a deliberate, calculated act of cruelty towards another life.