Father and son found guilty of animal cruelty

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- The week-long trial for Anthony and Samuel Clendenin came to an end Thursday. Surveillance video of Anthony and Samuel beating a dog to death was shown in court this week.

They claimed they killed their neighbor's dog Kuma early last year out of self-defense. But Kuma's family said the Clendenins had it out for the dog from the start.

After a week long trial the jury sided with Kuma's family-- finding the father and son guilty of animal cruelty and personal use of a deadly weapon. Outside the courtroom Kimberly Saesee, Kuma's owner, shared a tearful embrace with her family.

"My family and I are ecstatic. We've been waiting for this all year. And we're just really happy. The day has finally come. This is all we wanted-- is just that they get what they deserve."

The jury observed surveillance videos from the victim's home and body camera footage from police officers, along with pictures, and the bloody weapons. The defense attorney for Anthony said the two men were just defending themselves against the dog.

"My client went out and tried their best to get him out of the yard with no avail and end up killing the dog. It's hard to overcome those emotional ties that people have," said William Davis, defense attorney.

But the prosecuting attorney said they could've considered other options.

"Kuma the German Shepherd was retreating, and they lit it up with a flashlight. They could've easily gone inside and called the police, but instead grabbed their weapons and just kill it," said Thomas Min, prosecuting attorney.

Saesee said Kuma was a part of the family and is irreplaceable, but said she's glad this hard year is finally over.

"Now that he's gone, we ask he rest in peace and that justice is served."

The Clendenin's sentencing will be on September 1st, and they could face up to 4 years in prison.