Accused kitten killer’s family receiving protection

The Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office has increased security around the home of Robert Heckmann, who’s accused of torturing and killing a kitten.

Heckmann’s brother, Matthew Sanders, said animal cruelty is terrible but he believes it’s also inciting rage. He said his family has received death threats.

Lisa Shorter, a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office, said Heckmann’s home has been added to the county’s property watch list. She said the family asked for extra protection because of the threatening tone of posts on social media.

Heckmann, 25, was arrested Jan. 19 after Pueblo Animal Services searched his home and found a 12-week-old kitten, Loki, in a garbage can.

Heckmann is expected in court Feb. 3.