Judge Michael Cicconetti is no ordinary judge. When he dishes out sentences, they usually come with a creative twist that he hopes will teach offenders a valuable lesson.
We’re particularly fond of the judge’s treatment of animal abusers and neglecters. From spending the day at a dump to a night alone in the wilderness, Judge Mike’s punishments make people think twice about breaking the law.
In a phone interview the Municipal Court Judge from Painesville, Ohio said that his first dog made him the animal lover he is today. His family’s Dachshund mix Herman was a loving childhood companion, who he said was the best pet a kid could ever ask for.
Fast-forward to present day, and the judge is a proud dog-dad to a 10-year-old Bernese Mountain dog named Kasey. He explained that the pup was given to him by a friend who was dying of cancer, a gift to the Cicconetti family as a way of remembering him.
With his compassion for animals, Judge Mike tries to give abusers a taste of their own medicine, but he still has to stay within the parameters of the law. That is, he cannot give out “cruel and unusual” punishments or put anyone in danger, plus he considers each offender’s mental stability. But, he says, that doesn’t mean that they can’t deal with a little discomfort and embarrassment.
For instance, one neglectful woman who subjected her dog to living in filth was sentenced to spend a day at the dump. Judge Mike said at the hearing:
I want you to go down to the county dump, to the landfill, and I want them to find the stinkiest, smelliest, God-awful odor place they can find in that dump and I want you to sit there for eight hours tomorrow, to think about what you did to that dog while you smell the odor. If you puke, you puke.
Another, who abandoned 35 kittens in the woods, had to spend a night alone in the snowy wilderness, herself (along with jail time and a fine). He told her:
How would you like to be dumped off at a metro park late at night, spend the night listening to the coyotes … listening to the raccoons around you in the dark night, and sit out there in the cold not knowing where you’re going to get your next meal, not knowing when you are going to be rescued?
Goddard’s Law, which went into effect in Ohio last September, makes the crime of abuse to a companion animal a felony, which Judge Mike strongly supports. While it’s a huge step in the right direction, he hopes that laws regarding animal abuse continue to improve.
For one, there needs to be more education available to offenders. He said that child neglecters and drunk drivers must take mandatory courses as part of their sentences – why not those who harm animals? He pointed out that while some mistreatment of animals is malicious, some is just pure ignorance, especially in cases of neglect. Yes, leaving a dog tethered outside in the summer heat is incredibly stupid, but was it done with ill intent, or utter carelessness?
With that said, Judge Mike hopes that mental evaluations will become mandatory to all those responsible for animal-related crimes. He thinks that there could even be a registry for animal abusers, like there is for sex offenders. This way, neighbors with pets can be extra cautious if an abuser lives nearby, plus shelters can verify potential adopters.
Although the judge never made a conscious decision to start doling out his now-famous sentences, he said that he started concocting them after seeing repeat offenders early on in his career. Since they weren’t learning their lessons from fines or jail time, he decided to take a different approach. However, the judge doesn’t premeditate his sentences; he said that after he hears all the details of the case, he comes up with them spontaneously.
In addition to making criminals think hard about their actions, Judge Mike said that his headline-making sentences raise awareness about crimes and consequences. He hopes that people will realize that abuse and neglect is a crime, and those that witness it happening should call the police.
Then, of course, there’s the matter of being marched into the court room; maybe criminals will think twice if they know that they’ll have to face Judge Mike with his unpredictably clever sentences.
Next Story – Stay for one more story!
10 of the Smartest Dogs in the World:
A friend of mine has a beautiful Dalmatian. Friendly, energetic and lovable, she was a perfect family pet… but she wasn’t the smartest pooch on the planet. See, she knew how to go through the pet door out into the garden, but she had no clue how to get back inside. It never occurred to her that the flap could swing both ways. So she would sit outside and howl until my friend would open the door.
Repeated demonstrations of the dual movement of the flap had no effect; it just did not compute. The dog breeds on this list, however, probably don’t have that problem. They’re widely considered to be among the cleverest canines in the world. Take a look and see if you agree.
1. German Shepherd
Wikimedia Commons
No surprise here. German Shepherds are the world’s best police dogs, military dogs, and some have even been movie stars (remember Rin Tin Tin?). Brave, loyal, smart and strong, they’re the total package.
2. Beagle
Also on the list of the best family-friendly dogs in the world, the Beagle has an incredible nose that lets them sniff out just about anything. Born detectives, they’re not the most trainable pets, but they are smart. And hey, nobody ever accused Snoopy of being dumb.
3. Golden Retriever
A popular choice for assistance dogs for their easy temperament, natural intelligence and loyalty, Golden Retrievers are natural guides and also serve as great rescue dogs. Active and fun to be around, they’re wonderful family pets.
4. Border Collie
Wikimedia Commons
Border Collies are considered by many to be the geniuses of the dog world. Expert herders, laser-focused (they’re known for their intense stare), and incredibly agile to boot, they’re workaholics and excellent athletes. Just don’t expect to keep one cooped up in an apartment.
5. Poodle
Did you know poodles were originally hunting dogs? They respond very well to training and are quick to learn tricks. So don’t let the fluffy looks and styled mane fool you! These dogs are among the smart canines around. Plus, they’re among the best dogs in the world for those who suffer allergies.
6. Belgian Malinois
A terrific military dog, the Malinois is a natural herder, tracker and worker. Smart, trainable and protective, these dogs require an owner who knows what he or she is doing. In addition to the military, Malinois are often recruited as guard dogs and police dogs as well.
7. Papillon
Wikimedia Commons
Named for their butterfly-shaped ears, papillons are small, cute and pretty smart. They’re considered the smartest of the toy dog breed, with intelligence levels comparable to the über-smart border collie. They’re alert and focused pets, and loyal and lovable: an ideal friend for he family.
8. Doberman
Sadly, Dobermans are known more for their ferocity than their smarts, but these are considered among the most intelligent dogs in the world, as well as one of the most effective guard dogs around. They’re outstanding students known to be affectionate and obedient.
9. Bloodhound
Wikimedia Commons
Don’t let the wrinkles and dopey expression fool you! Bloodhounds have the keenest of noses, and are often used for trailing (so much so that their evidence can be used in court against you!). These are loving but strong-willed dogs, and are often used on search and rescue missions.
10. Australian Cattle Dog
Wikimedia Commons
You need a smart, determined and energetic dog to control unruly cows. And that’s just what the Australian Cattle Dog, or ACD, does. They’re intelligent enough to herd these much larger creatures, and while they need their independence and wide open spaces, they’re eager workers who know how to get the job done.
Did we miss your brainy dog on this list? If so, write in and let us know about it!
