ASPCA Disappointed at Decision of Judge in the Pretrial Hearing of Jayson Williams

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Friday, 6 February 2004

Evidence of link between violence against animals and humans should be admitted.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is shocked by the decision a New Jersey judge has made which bars the submission of evidence that basketball star, Jayson Williams killed his pet Rottweiler at his home in Alexandria, NJ. Williams, who is accused of aggravated manslaughter in the death of Costas Christofi, allegedly shot his pet twice in the head and abdomen just six months prior to the the Christofi shooting.

"There is clearcut evidence which indicates that people who intentionally injure or kill animals are inclined to act violently towards people," says Dr. Stephanie LaFarge, Director of the ASPCA's Counseling Services department. "Research has shown that people who are violent toward the family pet as Jayson Williams allegedly was, are more inclined to be violent towards their family and friends."

Dr. LaFarge specializes in the psychodynamic aspects of the human/companion animal bond and has developed an intervention program for persons convicted of animal abuse. She has been Director of the ASPCA's counseling services department for six years and provides psychotherapy for convicted animal abusers.

For more information, or to contact American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, see their website at: www.aspca.org