The Fight to Save US Army Veteran’s Beloved Dog Facing a Death Sentence

In 2011, a young puppy was rescued from the streets of Kabul, Afghanistan. The young dog, Marley, lived in the horrors of war before being rescued by United States Army Veteran Jonathan Jones. Now, Jones is fighting the Bay County Courts to save his dog’s life against a cruel injustice. He has been sentenced to death for a natural reaction, and one that Jones feels does not warrant such a harsh reaction.

“Back in 2011, our colleagues Nowzad Dogs in Afghanistan went to great lengths to get Marley safely to the United States,” explains Robert Misseri, president of Guardians of Rescue who is trying to get Marley back to his family. “Marley has lived with the Jones family and played with the children for almost five years. Now, after everything Marley has been through, to have the dog awaiting a death sentence for a natural response is unfair and we are determined to help justice prevail.”

The incident occurred when Marley bit Jones’ 15 year old son who was wearing a mask while playing cops and robbers with his 5 year old brother. Marley was only protecting the younger boy from what he thought was a threat. Unfortunately, neighbors called animal control before learning the facts.

The Bay County Magistrate ruled in Marley’s favor, but the County Attorney is appealing the case for a death sentence. Marley has been in a glass chamber on death row in Bay County, Florida for almost five months now. The hearing is scheduled for Thursday, March 3, 2016.

“Marley’s family just wants justice in this case and to bring their dog back home where he belongs,” affirms Misseri. “He is more than a dog…he’s family. Guardians of Rescue will do all that they can to help free Marley and we ask that everyone join us and do the same.”

To support Marley and his family via Facebook

Guardians of Rescue provides assistance to animals out on the streets, helping to rescue them, provide medical care, food and shelter, and find foster-home placements. Many families are struggling, making it difficult for them to care for their pet financially. They are also instrumental in helping military members with their pets, and providing therapy dogs to veterans suffering from post traumatic stress disorder.