There are many people to thank on the road to seeking justice for animal victims of cruelty. But one individual stands out in the heart of our Justice for Animals’ Senior Campaigner, Doll Stanley: the late Assistant District Attorney Donna Fields, who tragically lost her life last winter.

It’s difficult to write about someone so vital, so giving, and so deeply engaged — someone who touched so many lives and who is missed by all who knew her. On Monday, December 15, 2024, a driver hit Donna Fields’ car head-on with their vehicle in Shelby County, Tennessee.

Stanley met Fields through District Attorney Steven Mulroy when they worked together on the heartbreaking case of Riona, a dog who had been severely burned. Their mutual dedication to protecting animals was clear from the beginning. Mulroy had helped strengthen Tennessee’s animal protection laws, and both he and Fields showed a deep commitment to seeing justice served.

After reviewing Rionna’s case file with Fields, Stanley submitted In Defense of Animals’ letter supporting the prosecution of Riona’s abuser, Quishon Brown.

Stanley was present in court for Brown’s sentencing, which Fields had carefully structured: a plea deal that ensured Brown would immediately be re-arrested for raping his 13-year-old niece. Thanks to her determination, jail would be his residence.

Fields never stopped helping. Even after retiring as a judge, she volunteered her time as an assistant district attorney to keep protecting animals. She became a trusted source of regular guidance for cruelty cases across Tennessee for Stanley.

Fields shared her life with a beloved dog family of five, two of whom are now being cared for by her niece, after she found homes for the other three, someone she’d also helped when tenants were abusing animals. Her impact was powerful on whatever she engaged in — a rare gem, who represents a tragic loss for animals and the rescue community.

District Attorney Steven Mulroy summed it up best, stating, “Donna Fields was a relentless advocate for justice, especially for those who had no voice. She didn’t have to return to work, but she chose to because of her deep love for animals and her steadfast commitment to justice.”

We are heartbroken by her loss, but we remain inspired by her legacy.

To learn more about our work seeking justice for animals and how you can help, visit our Justice for Animals campaign.