WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. – A Pennsylvania man was sentenced to 12 months on Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) for the theft of two bovine cattle heifers, resulting in the death of one cow and injury to the other. The emotional courtroom was packed with over 20 family members and 4-H chapter supporters in a show of solidarity against animal cruelty.
The cows, Lyndy and Lexy, were more than just pets – they were part of a 4-H project for the children of their owners. In January 2020, Gary Colatosti was charged with theft and animal cruelty after stealing the cows and causing them harm. Colatosti accepted into the ARD program, avoiding a possible 31-year jail sentence and $90,000 fine.
The family friend’s testimony, along with evidence found at Colatosti’s property, led to the charges. The trooper found blood and guts in Colatosti’s backyard and witnessed a burning brush pile with the remains of one of the cows. Furthermore, warm, unfrozen quarters of a cow with black hair still attached were found near his property.
The impact on the victims’ family was described as traumatic, leading to fear in their lives and confusion for their young children. The family asked for the maximum punishment, emphasizing that this case was not typical and calling for significant community service for Colatosti.
As part of his entrance into the ARD program, Colatosti is required to pay restitution to the Kitzmiller family, write an apology letter to the minor victims, donate to the Lycoming County Dairy Committee, complete 50 hours of community service, and have no contact with the victims’ family. Additionally, he is prohibited from possessing firearms and his hunting privileges are suspended for the duration of the program.
The sentencing drew an emotional response from the family and the local community, underscoring the gravity of the crime and the ongoing impact on the victims. The event has served as a stark reminder of the importance of holding individuals accountable for acts of animal cruelty.