VINTON, Va. (WDBJ) - The operator of a pizza restaurant is speaking out after crowds rallied around the restaurant to protest an animal cruelty case.

Giacomo Montuori operates New York Pizza in Vinton.

Montuori’s mother, Antonia Montuori, was recently charged with misdemeanor animal cruelty after her dog had to be euthanized after it was found with maggots coming out of its head.

The case sparked protests last week, and Giacomo Montuori says his employees have been unfairly threatened.

“My employees have been dealing with threats and we don’t need that. I have been dealing with threats on social media. All these protesters in the front of my restaurant, this is insane. I understand the situation that happened, but we can’t be liable for this stuff.”

Montouri says he didn’t know the co

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