Continuance announced for alleged dog killer

The man who allegedly set a dog on fire in Soledad was in court Thursday for his preliminary hearing. The news of what happened to this two year old dog sparked outrage on social media.

About a dozen animal lovers wearing t-shirts reading “Justice for Kato” came to see how the suspect would plea. Those people will have to wait a few more weeks.

“We’re gonna set this for a receded report and setting a competency hearing. We’re looking at May 17th at 8:30,” said Monterey County Judge Mark Hood. He announced a continuation in the case against Devonte Marquis Sirwet. a hearing will be held on May 17th to determine if Sirwet is mentally competent. He’ll be examined by the Monterey County Mental Health Department which will then make a recommendation. Those who came to see had mixed reactions.

“They’re not dropping the case, it’s just a continuance. And if it can be done right, for him, and for the system, then I’m all for it,” said #JusticeForKato Supporter Devon Nichols.

“He has to be given the seven years that the Da’s trying to push. He has to be given the whole seven years. And mental issues? Please…you knew what you were doing when setting that dog on fire. No, there’s no excuse for that. Mental or not, there’s no excuse for setting an animal on fire,” said #JusticeForKato Supporter Laura Mendez.

The incident happened on March 27th when Sirwet allegedly lured Kato the dog out of his mother’s house in Soledad, took him to a nearby drainage ditch, doused him with lighter fluid and lit him on fire. Soldedad Police found the pitbull with severe burns over 90% of his body. He was humanely euthanized not long after.

Sirwet is being held in county jail with no bail.