Judge Boyd Gives Defendant Only Two Harsh Options After Puppy-Beating Video

Step inside a real Texas courtroom as Judge Boyd handles two intense and emotionally charged cases: a viral animal-cruelty incident involving a three-month-old puppy and a separate sentencing hearing where family members testify on behalf of the defendant.

The session begins with the highly publicized case involving Ms. Miller, accused of striking her puppy approximately 17 times while the dog was muzzled. Although the defense argues that the leash was “flaccid,” that the puppy suffered no visible injuries, and that the defendant has no criminal history, the State highlights the severity of the act: the yelps of pain, the muzzle, the repeated blows, the misleading statements made to officers, and her later attempts to sell the dog for profit. The State requests 10 years of community supervision, 180 days in jail, no-pet conditions, and behavioral-change programs.

Judge Boyd delivers one of the most decisive rulings of the day, offering the defendant only two options:
1️⃣ Deferred adjudication for 8 years, but with a required jail component, or
2️⃣ A conviction on her record with no jail time.
The judge emphasizes that every case is individual, and rehabilitation must include accountability.

The court then moves to an unrelated sentencing hearing for Collin Spencer O’Neill, whose plea agreement includes an eight-year punishment cap. The State opposes community supervision, while the defense presents emotional testimony. O’Neill’s mother describes his upbringing, ADHD struggles, the loss of his father, and his generally positive character. A longtime family friend testifies that although she works in animal rescue and does not excuse wrongdoing, she believes O’Neill would succeed under strict community supervision with structure and discipline.

Judge Boyd admits letters submitted by the defense over the State’s objection — remarking humorously that she reads “very fast” — before continuing the sentencing process.

This docket showcases Judge Boyd’s balance of firmness, empathy, evidentiary discipline, and individualized sentencing — making her courtroom among the most compelling in Texas.

This video is for educational and informational purposes only.
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