Former KISS rocker VINNIE VINCENT has spoken out following his aggravated assault arrest last month (May 11) to clear up reports about the dead animals police found strewn throughout his home after answering a call from his wife.
The guitarist, real name Vincent John Cusano, has issued a statement regarding his 22 May (11) arrest, blasting the "irresponsible reporting" that made him look like a monster, not an animal lover.
Police reports suggested cops attending the Cusanos' home in Tennessee found four dead dogs packed up in plastic containers - and animal cruelty officials were called in to investigate.
The case was quickly dropped when Cusano's wife confirmed the pets were killed by another one of the couple's dogs.
And now the former Kiss star is speaking out about the reports, explaining he was waiting to bury the animals after they were attacked and killed by one of his "big dogs".
He states, "Irresponsible reporting and fabrication of events that never happened destroys people's lives, and that is exactly what has happened. It's very unfortunate we live in times where you're guilty even if you're innocent, but it's the way of the world now. It's also sad to me that not only do the media get away with publishing unsubstantiated sensationalized reports that are then taken as the truth.
"I have 20 dogs that were rescued since 1999 from unspeakable and horrible abuse. I never turned my back or said no if a dog or cat needed a loving home. Each one of them is spoiled rotten; great food, love, comfort, care and shelter. They never leave my side and sit with me when I watch videos or when I play my guitar, the sound of which seems to fascinate them.
"Fencing was put up to separate the big dogs from the little ones who could roam without any problem. One day, without my knowing, some of the big dogs accidently (sic) got loose somehow and killed three of my babies. When I found out, it was too late. I was shattered and just too devastated for words.
"I wrapped them each in blankets and laid them to rest in caskets where I made a cross and wrote the words to (Irish anthem) Danny Boy on their casket. The weather had been pretty bad here for awhile and an excavator was planned to come (to) the property to dig up the ground so I could give them a proper burial when this terrible thing happened."
He adds, "Those who know me know I would never harm any animal as they are God's most beautiful and innocent of creations. I'm a vegetarian because of my respect for all animals."
And he also insists the truth will out about his fight with his wife, adding, "As you must know, this is a private matter that I cannot comment on at this time. Please don't believe everything you read. I would never hurt anyone - ever. What has been reported is an absolutely inaccurate depiction of the events that occurred that evening. When it's time, the truth will be known."
The rocker is accused of dragging his wife through shards of broken glass during a fight.
Tagged in Kiss