Newly minted National Rifle Association (NRA) boss Douglas Hamlin was reprimanded for his connection to the dismembering and killing of a cat during his college years.
A Michigan judge blamed Hamlin and four of his fraternity brothers for participating in the “unconscionable and heinous” killing of a fraternity house cat named BK when the students pleaded no contest to misdemeanor animal cruelty, according to numerous reports.
The frat boys allegedly became upset when BK wouldn’t use a litter box. That reportedly led to the animal having its paws cut off and being lit on fire. It’s not clear what specific role Hamlin — the group’s leader — played in determining the fate of the cat. Hamlin said in a statement from the NRA he wasn’t involved directly.
“I do not in any way condone the actions that took place more than 44 years ago. I took responsibility for this regrettable incident as chapter president although I wasn’t directly involved,” the former Marine claims. “Since that time I served my country, raised a family, volunteered in my community, started a business, worked with Gold Star families, and raised millions of dollars for charity. I’ve endeavored to live my life in a manner beyond reproach. My focus now is on protecting the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens.”
Hamlin reportedly had his record expunged after completing 200 hours of community service. He was expelled from Alpha Delta Phi after charges were brought against him in 1980, according to the Guardian. One of his frat brothers told that publication what happened was “regrettable” and “not a good chapter” for those associated with the cruelty inflicted on the feline.
The NRA welcomed “Hamlin to its family in a July 29 announcement.
“He’s a patriot, a leader and NRA’s answer to the challenges we face as Second Amendment supporters,” a press release said. “But those of us who know him just call him ‘Doug.’”
