A Colorado man has been sentenced to six years in prison for the horrific abuse of Nova, his mother’s 3-month-old puppy. Thanks to your action, justice has been served.

Ryan Kieckhaefer was taken into custody after the Grand Junction Police Department received an anonymous tip last October. Disturbing videos documented two weeks of abuse that showed him swinging Nova by a leash, hitting her, spraying her in the face with a hose, and even breaking a tooth with pliers. An arrest warrant was issued the same day, and he was identified as the suspect and charged with aggravated animal cruelty.

On July 30, 2025, Kieckhaefer was sentenced to six years of imprisonment. He is currently in custody and awaiting placement. In addition to incarceration, he must complete an extensive probation program before regaining his freedom, including:

• Full-time employment
  
  
• Screening for brain injury
  
  
• Following cognitive behavioral therapy recommendations
  
  
• Engaging in pro-social activities
  
  
• Substance abuse monitoring and sobriety
  
  
• Earning his GED
  
  
• Completing anger management
  
  
• Obeying all laws
  
  
• Having no contact with animals until all probation requirements are fulfilled

While the current condition and whereabouts of Nova have not been made public officially, according to someone connected to the family, she has recovered from a skull fracture and is doing well.

"Nova is doing great. Her skull fracture has healed and she's been under a veterinarian's care along with personal training for her confidence. She's living a great life."

Your voice made a real difference. We delivered 18,277 signatures of In Defense of Animals supporters to District Attorney Daniel P. Rubinstein, urging maximum sentencing. We are deeply grateful for every supporter who spoke up for Nova and helped achieve this outcome.

Together, we continue to demand justice for animals and hold abusers accountable. Please consider donating to support our work on this issue.