Cat Stuffed Into A Bong
Photo Credit: Associated Press
29 July 2009
by Anai Rhoads
AnaiRhoads.org -- A Nebraska man, who was cited in March for stuffing his cat into a self-made marijuana bong, was charged with animal cruelty this week.
The now 21 year-old Acea Schomaker originally pleaded not guilty in April to animal cruelty, citing that his intention was to “calm the cat down because she was hyper.” However, he changed his mind Monday and pleaded guilty to animal cruelty charges, and also pleaded guilty to marijuana and alcohol possession. He was still considered a minor at the time of the incident.
According to Schomaker, Shadow had a habit of biting and scratching. He believed that the marijuana would help ease her mood swings. Schomaker claims he was convinced that it was a good idea after reading posts online, where people recommended blowing smoke into the animal's face to correct her behavioural problems.
Schomaker placed Shadow into the makeshift device, which composed of a piece of garden hose attached to a duct-taped Plexiglass box, and proceeded to smoke the marijuana.
Shadow was said to be covered in feces and urine and in poor condition. She was visibly shaken and was rushed to a Lincoln animal shelter for treatment. Shadow was said to be good condition shortly after the marijuana wore off.
Schomaker is expected to return to court on 18 September, where he may face up to a year in jail.
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