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Great dismay and astonishment have recently permeated the animal protection community in Cuba, after they reported and succeeded in having Yordenis Torres Mendoza, an abuser and animal violator in Cienfuegos, detained by the regime, only for him to be released just hours after his arrest.
Despite the repeated reports submitted on social media and to the National Revolutionary Police (PNR), and the activists claiming to have compelling evidence of the atrocious acts committed against animals, they cannot comprehend how, once again, crimes of this nature go unpunished in Cuba, without justice for the victims or real consequences for the perpetrators.
Indignation has been strongly felt on social media and among animal rights organizations. Animal Welfare Cuba, in its Havana chapter, expressed its disapproval through a direct message posted this Monday on Facebook:
"Absolutely incredible. We have just been informed that the rapist and murderer from Cienfuegos has been released. This is unacceptable. How long will this continue? How many more must be killed?" he stated.
For its part, the animal protection group SOS (PASOS) also reacted strongly on Facebook.
"They have just released the rapist and killer from Cienfuegos. This is shocking. What are they waiting for? We will not stand idly by," he emphasized.
One of the most vocal advocates has been the renowned animal rights defender Yenney Caballero, who declared on Facebook that she feels deeply disappointed by what happened.
"I feel outraged. It is a disrespect to the animal rights community. Less than three hours of detention and this individual was released, with all the evidence of his atrocious acts," she said.
The activist also pointed out that there is audiovisual evidence showing the accused trying to avoid being recorded, aware of what he was hiding: “It is clear to see how the animals he confines live. What are they waiting for? For this psychopath to commit sexual abuse against a minor or a woman?”
Caballero questioned why, if the authorities claim there are mental health issues, the assailant has not been transferred to a specialized institution.
"It has been proven that he is also a thief. That goat they took from his house, how did he get it? Animals cost money and he doesn't work. It’s evident that it was stolen," emphasized the angry activist.
According to what he explained, neighbors can testify that the individual often carries knives and machetes in the street: “If citizens like this are not removed from the streets, what safety will our animals, children, and people have?”
The activist made an urgent call to reform the current Animal Welfare Decree-Law, demanding harsher penalties: “This is our cause. We ask for a little respect. Value what we do. Are we asking for too much?”
In his statement, he warned that a group of activists is prepared to mobilize to Cienfuegos if similar events occur again: “Yordenis will be monitored. Resolve this situation. This is the second time the case has been reported through the appropriate channels with evidence and nothing has been done. We demand justice. How many more animals will continue to die?”
From the Facebook profile of Rosa Martínez, one of the individuals who has reported the case from its inception, there was also concern expressed about the release of the accused and the danger that it represents.
"This guy was released too easily. Now the dog that is missing is there, and it's not a lie or a rumor. It's like this because it's illogical that they don't show up, given the power of social media," he emphasized.
Martínez questioned the arguments of alleged mental illness used to justify inaction against the aggressor: “These individuals are not crazy. Crazy people do not know what they are doing because they don’t reason. This is a person who will escalate his behavior every day until he kidnaps a girl or a boy. He had incidents of that many years ago when he was fondling minors.”
The activist warned of the risk that, in the face of institutional inaction, someone might decide to take justice into their own hands: "Until one day someone takes justice into their own hands and puts an end to this ugly story."
Despite the current impunity, the strength of the animal advocacy community stood out: "Together we are invincible. And just because they were freed does not mean they are safe, as there are eyes everywhere, and mouths and hands as well, ready to watch over and rescue the unfortunate animals that are suffering under their abuse."
Martínez recalled that the struggle began three years ago and that they do not intend to stop: “This story started three years ago, and we're going to keep fighting with the same strength. Believe it or not, we have already achieved the milestone of having everyone know about it, and they understand the danger that this type represents. Therefore, we must continue to push so that one day, as the saying goes, ‘the pitcher goes to the well until it breaks.’”
It concluded with a new warning: "This guy is a danger. Everyone is aware of it. As for the lost dog, look for it there, and those who are close by should prepare for worse things to come. And indeed, never stop fighting."
Frequently Asked Questions about Animal Welfare and Justice in Cuba
Why was Yordenis Torres Mendoza released after being arrested for animal abuse in Cienfuegos?
The Cuban regime released Yordenis Torres Mendoza just a few hours after his arrest, despite the compelling evidence of his crimes of mistreatment and sexual abuse against animals. The impunity in this case reflects the ineffectiveness of the authorities to enforce the Animal Welfare Decree-Law and ensure justice for the victims. Activists have expressed their outrage and demanded harsher and more effective penalties.
What is the response of the animal rights community to the release of the abuser in Cienfuegos?
The animal rights community has reacted with deep indignation and outrage at the release of Yordenis Torres Mendoza. Organizations such as Bienestar Animal Cuba and Protección Animal SOS (PASOS) have utilized social media to condemn the inaction of the authorities and demand justice. Furthermore, they have warned that they will keep a watchful eye on the accused and will continue to fight for legal reforms that ensure stricter penalties.
What deficiencies does the Animal Welfare Decree-Law in Cuba present according to activists?
The Animal Welfare Decree-Law in Cuba, approved in 2021, has several deficiencies according to activists. The lack of effective implementation and insufficient penalties allow cases of animal cruelty to go unpunished. Additionally, veterinary clinics lack the necessary resources to provide adequate care, and there are no campaigns for sterilization or vaccination for stray animals.
What risks does the release of Yordenis Torres Mendoza pose to the community?
The release of Yordenis Torres Mendoza poses a significant risk to the community, according to activists. The individual has been identified by neighbors and activists as a threat, not only to animals but also to vulnerable individuals, including children and women. The lack of effective action by the authorities could lead someone to take justice into their own hands.
What measures do activists demand to improve animal protection in Cuba?
Activists are demanding a reform of the Animal Welfare Decree-Law to implement harsher and more effective penalties for animal abuse. They are also calling for adequate resources for veterinary clinics, sterilization and vaccination campaigns, and greater institutional action in cases of animal cruelty. Additionally, there is an emphasis on the need to raise public awareness about the respect and care of animals.
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