Sign: Hold Man Accountable for Throwing a Kitten to Ground and Stomping Him to Death

Published: January 01, 2026 at 09:25 PM Author: Animal Welfare Investigative Writer & Petition Author

Spring Hill, Florida – A Florida man is facing criminal charges after a violent incident in December that claimed the life of an innocent 12-week-old kitten. According to the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, on December 6, deputies were called out to a residence on Lightwood Street after receiving a report of a battery.

Deputies made contact with the victim and learned that her live-in boyfriend, 22-year-old Cayden Lemay, had become “physically aggressive” during an argument. Lemay allegedly pushed the woman into a bathroom and then turned his violence toward her 12-week-old kitten, throwing the tiny feline to the ground and stomping him to death.

The investigation led to the arrest of Cayden Lemay, who is charged with aggravated animal cruelty and domestic battery. Lemay was booked into the Hernando County Detention Center.

The authorities commented on this tragic situation, stating in their media release:

The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office was deeply saddened to learn this kitten, who was adopted from Animal Services, was the victim of a random act of senseless violence.

The alleged actions described by law enforcement reflect unconscionable violence against his girlfriend and an innocent, tiny kitten, who paid with his life. It is imperative that this case be treated with the gravity it warrants. Please add your name to the petition to urge prosecutors to pursue the maximum penalties allowed by law.

Lemay’s next hearing is his arraignment on January 15, 2026.

Decision Maker: Prosecuting Attorney Lyndsey Pruett

WHY THIS PETITION MATTERS: 

We, the undersigned, demand that Cayden Lemay be held accountable for brutally killing an innocent, tiny kitten. It is our collective demand that Lemay face the maximum sentence for the charges of domestic battery and aggravated animal cruelty. We also demand that this man be permanently banned from owning, residing with, or working with animals. Laws must recognize the actual seriousness of animal abuse and ensure that those who commit these brutal acts are held fully accountable. This case is not just about the severe abuse and death of an innocent kitten; it is about the precedent we set for justice.

Research shows a clear link between animal cruelty and human violence. Those who harm animals often pose a danger to people as well. Failing to hold this man accountable not only denies justice to the young kitten who suffered an unfair, miserable death but also puts the entire community at risk.

This petition is based on information from police and public officials. Details may change as investigations continue. If charges are modified, dropped, or expunged, Animal Victory will update upon verified documentation. All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Some images are illustrative when real photos are unavailable, restricted, or cannot be legally used. Our priority is accuracy, responsibility, and protecting the dignity of the animals involved.

Note: It is unclear whether the kitten was male or female. We have chosen to refer to the kitten as male, as this sentient, living being deserves to be acknowledged as more than “it.”

News

Hernando County Sheriff’s Office Media Release

Fox 13 Tampa

Suncoast News

Update 1/7/2026: Cayden Lemay’s next court appearance is 01/15/2026 at 2:00 p.m. E.S.T., The Judge in this case has changed. New Judge is Don Barbee, Jr.

Hernando County OCRS Cayden Lemay