April 11, 2005

Honorable Judge Fairwell
Hayward Hall of Justice
24405 Amador Street
Hayward, CA 94544

Re: Sigmon Case #376959 and Collins Case #376959B

Honorable Judge Fairwell,

I have been involved and extremely interested in these two cases because I am the person who notified the East Bay Regional Parks Police when the pictures of Lucky the rabbit first surfaced on the internet. I am also the person who Lucky was turned over to once she was confiscated. I cared for Lucky in my home, provided her a warm and safe place to stay and then adopted her out to a loving family she will spend the rest of her life with.

The acts of Sigmon and Collins were not only despicable and shocking, but showed us just how cruel two men can be. Their serious and cowardly acts also serve as a reminder that it is our responsibility to protect the animals that cannot protect themselves. It is a responsibility that should be taken very seriously.

You have the opportunity in your courtroom to send a strong message to the people that you will not stand for such heinous behavior. I am asking that you find both Sigmon and Collins guilty as charged and give them a sentence to fit their horrific act of torture upon a small and defenseless animal.

Respectfully,

Karen Courtemanche

cc:  Deputy District Attorney, Jill L. Nerone

Honorable Judge Robert Fairwell
Hayward Hall of Justice
24405 Amador Street, Hayward, CA 94544

RE:    Nicholas Konno Sigmon case # 376959A - Atty: Lew - Charge: M597a
Paul Gabriel Collins Case # 376959B - Atty: Traback - Charge: M597a

To the Honorable Judge Fairwell,

I have the privilege and honor of being the guardian of the little East Bay rabbit known as Lucky and I am writing on behalf of her to plead for justice.  Although she is flourishing in the love of her new bunny companions and home, she none-the-less went through a hell that no one should ever suffer.  What Nicholas Sigmon and Paul Collins did to her was nothing short of sadistic torture and abuse.  The fact that their heartlessly cruel act was also proudly posted on the web shows a blatant and callous disregard for life and the law.  Did they truly think that their act would have no consequences? Justice demands some recompense from these two for their despicable actions.  We are all aware that serial killers (such as Jeffrey Dahmer) got their start torturing and killing animals before getting bored and moving on to people.  I am fearful that these individuals, who have shown a horrifying appetite for sadistic acts, pose a significant threat to other animals and, if unpunished, could ultimately move onto to people. 

What kind of message will be sent to the youths that accompanied Mr. Sigmon and Mr. Collins during the horrific acts at the lake, and to others following this case if no jail time is served?  One must be responsible for one’s actions.  Yes, they have had this trial/case hanging over their heads since being arrested, but that is not the same as serving time for the crime committed.  I encourage you to deeply consider the message that will be sent as you determine sentencing.  I also encourage that therapy for this abnormal and violent act be included as a part of the sentence.  I am not vindictive, I pray that they will some day be productive members of society; but I also believe strongly that they will not benefit from a fine and slap on the wrist.

As an officer of the court, we look to you to hold criminals accountable, prosecute them appropriately, and protect those that you represent.  Again, I strongly encourage you consider a sentence appropriate for the callous and incredibly cruel act against a helpless creature.

Sincerely,

Rachel Hess

cc: Alameda County Deputy District Attorney Jill Nerone