Update - August 3, 2016 - Shawana Dearing Hughes was sentenced today August 3, 2016, by Judge Angelo A. Delligatti to one year in jail and five years probation on various charges. Shawana Dearing Hughes pleaded guilty to her part in the in the horrendous act of cruelty to Miss Harper.

The Nassau County SPCA is eternally grateful to the advocacy members who continue to show their support in our quest for justice for Miss Harper.

A press release on the scheduled sentencing is below.

Mineola, NY - August 2, 2016 - Shawana Dearing Hughes is scheduled to be sentenced tomorrow August 3, 2016 9:30 am. Shawana Dearing Hughes pleaded guilty to her part in the in the horrendous act of cruelty to Miss Harper.  The Nassau County SPCA will once again have advocacy members attend Nassau County Criminal Court Part 98 in Mineola (see map  below) sentencing. Please join us!

Miss Harper was found in September 2013, when she was just a puppy, with her back leg and both her ears cut off.

Lee Hughes, Shawana Dearing Hughes husband, is in custody, his sentencing for his part in this crime is August 10, 2016.    

The Nassau County SPCA is eternally grateful to the advocacy members who continue to show their support in our quest for justice for Miss Harper.

The Nassau County SPCA Court Advocacy members will be present  at all proceeding to convey a strong message to the defendant, the judge, and all other interested parties in the criminal justice system: this community cares about the outcome of these animal abuse cases.

The Nassau County SPCA sincerely appreciate the court advocacy members who have taken the time to show their support for Miss Harper.