Key points: Bronx Judge Linda Poust Lopez told 26-year-old David Mosley (aka Church of Ububal) she will only approve a plea deal if he accepts the maximum sentence on the animal cruelty charge related to an alleged Oct. 16 killing of a house cat. Mosley faces additional charges and was reportedly threatened another "live sacrifice" on Halloween. The judge also urged him to follow up on mental-health treatment, while activists and veterinarians pushed to prevent him from obtaining more animals.
NYC Judge: No Plea Deal Unless Aspiring Rapper Accepts Maximum Sentence in Alleged Cat Sacrifice
Key points: Bronx Judge Linda Poust Lopez told 26-year-old David Mosley (aka Church of Ububal) she will only approve a plea deal if he accepts the maximum sentence on the animal cruelty charge related to an alleged Oct. 16 killing of a house cat. Mosley faces additional charges and was reportedly threatened another "live sacrifice" on Halloween. The judge also urged him to follow up on mental-health treatment, while activists and veterinarians pushed to prevent him from obtaining more animals.
08:21 AM, 11/19/2025Society
Bronx Judge Linda Poust Lopez told 26-year-old David Mosley, who performs under the name Church of Ububal, that she will not approve any plea agreement on the animal cruelty count unless he accepts the maximum sentence allowed under the law.
Mosley is accused of killing a house cat during an online, satanic-themed stunt on Oct. 16 and of threatening a second "live sacrifice" on Halloween. Court officers say he faces multiple allegations, including aggravated cruelty to animals, criminal mischief and unlawful disposal of a dead animal. The animal cruelty charge carries up to two years in prison.
In court the judge emphasized both punishment and treatment, telling Mosley, "I will not approve a plea deal on the animal cruelty charge unless it is the maximum sentence on that charge. I want you to follow up on your mental health appointments." Activists and members of the public jeered and confronted Mosley outside the courthouse; police officers escorted him inside for his safety.
Local veterinarians and animal-welfare advocates circulated his online posts in an effort to prevent him from obtaining more animals. Authorities say the social-media posts helped prompt investigation and eventual arrest.
What happens next
Prosecutors will decide whether to offer a plea that meets the judge's condition; if no acceptable deal is reached, the case could proceed to trial. The judge's insistence on the maximum sentence on the cruelty count signals a tough stance on animal abuse and a focus on ensuring the defendant receives mental-health evaluation and follow-up care as part of any disposition.
Note: The facts above reflect allegations and charges. Mr. Mosley is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.