Judge orders buffer zone to protect 'Puppy Doe' trial from protests

DEDHAM, Mass. — Superior Court Judge Thomas Connors has ordered a 'buffer zone' around the Norfolk courthouse where the 'Puppy Doe' trial is set to begin Tuesday.

Radoslaw Czerkawski is charged with abusing the dog so severely that it had to be euthanized.

He's finally heading to trial nearly four years after the animal that came to be known as Puppy Doe was found barely alive on a playground.

The case made national news when it first came to light and has sparked rage across the country in animal rights activists.

MORE: 'Puppy Doe': High-profile animal abuse trial set to start

A number of social media pages have been started seeking justice for the dog. While the pages have seemingly discouraged any virulent action, Judge Connors has sought to ensure calm surrounding the trial.

"It is hereby ORDERED that no individual may demonstrate in any manner, including by carrying signs or placards or making statements about the defendant or his pending cases within 500 feet of the court complex during the trial of his case," Connors wrote.

The written order also prohibits buttons, shirts or other insignia that could convey messages about the defendant.

Czerkawski faces multiple animal cruelty charges in the trial scheduled to start Tuesday in Massachusetts.

At least one page has created a Facebook event to allow members to announce their attendance at the trial or to invite friends.

Cox Media Group