The HSUS Offers $2,500 Reward in Vinemont, Ala. Beagle Skinning Case

November 30, 2007

The Humane Society of the United States is offering a reward up to $2,500 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for attacking two beagles in Vinemont, Ala., leaving one skinned alive.

The Case:

News reports give the following account: Two family beagles who were roaming County Road 1428 in Vinemont on Sunday were attacked and skinned. One beagle escaped and survived with minor lacerations, but the second beagle, Anne, had to be euthanized due to the extent of her injuries.

Animal Cruelty:

Getting the serious attention of law enforcement, prosecutors and the community in cases involving allegations of cruelty to animals is an essential step in protecting the community. The connection between animal cruelty and human violence is well documented.  Studies show a correlation between animal cruelty and all manner of other crimes, from narcotics and firearms violations to battery and sexual assault.

"Those who abuse animals can be dangerous to society," said Dale Bartlett, The HSUS' deputy manager for animal cruelty issues.  "Americans have no tolerance for violence against the creatures who share our world."

The Investigators:

The Cullman County Sheriff's Office is investigating.  Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Sheriff Tyler Roden's Secret Witness number at 256-734-0410.

The reward offered, including The HSUS' $2,500 offer, has topped $6,500, according to Roden.

Resources:

The HSUS Animal Cruelty Campaign raises public awareness and educates communities about the connection between animal cruelty and human violence while providing a variety of resources to law enforcement agencies, social work professionals, educators, legislators and families. The HSUS offers rewards in animal cruelty cases across the country and works to strengthen laws against animal cruelty. Visit: humanesociety.org/cruelty.

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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization – backed by 10 million Americans, or one of every 30. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty -- On the web at humanesociety.org.