'Justice 4 Millie' Looking for Petition Signers

When news spread that a man from Savage had beat his dog, Millie, with a sledgehammer in front of witnesses, there were those who wanted to make sure that the incident did not go unpunished.

Nancy Minion, Emily Randolph and Mel Freer started the Facebook group Justice 4 Millie that same day as a way to organize action toward a common goal. 

"This page is dedicated to bringing R. Poppe to justice to the fullest extent of the law (felony animal cruelty conviction). The purpose is to serve as a central location for our organized efforts."

It now has almost 3,700 likes and counting.

"I knew it was going to take off quickly," said Minion. "This is just such an egregious act of cruelty and it’s just not acceptable in the public eye."

Minion has worked on animal welfare laws for 24 years. She also runs Second Chance Animal Rescue, which she started with several others 19 years ago. The nonprofit organization rescues animals from animal control facilities and finds homes for them, Minion explained. 

Justice 4 Millie took its first action with an organized protest at the Scott County Courthouse on the day of Poppe's first court appearance.

Rudolph William Poppe, 71, was charged with felony animal cruelty, disorderly conduct and obstructing the legal process.

Justice 4 Millie has now created an online petition on thepetitionsite.com. The petition will be sent to Scott County Attorney Patrick Ciliberto.

Said Minion, "We did the petition because we want the court to know how many people really think he should be convicted of felony animal cruelty and not accept a plea deal."

So far the petition has nearly 5,000 signatures toward the goal of 20,000 signatures. People from states throughout the U.S. and even from other countries have signed the petition, according to identifications on the site.

Minion is pleased with the large amount of support the petition and the Facebook group has gathered.

"I love it when people get involved," she said.

Justice 4 Millie plans next to appear at Poppe's August 8 court date.

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