After Two Years, Reward Renewed for Information on Whereabouts of Baxter County, Ark. Most Wanted

October 31, 2007

Tammy and William Hanson Wanted on Outstanding Arrest Warrants for Animal Cruelty

The Humane Society of the United States renewed its reward of up to $2500 for information leading to the arrest of Tammy and William Hanson, convicted two years ago on 20 misdemeanor counts of cruelty to animals in Arkansas. The Baxter County (Ark.) Sheriff's Office seized almost 500 dogs from what the Hansons purported was an animal sanctuary in Gamaliel, Ark. named Every Dog Needs a Home (EDNAH). The couple failed to appear for sentencing and warrants were issued for their arrest.

"We've received and followed up on dozens of leads for the couple and are hopeful this renewed attention will bring fresh information of their whereabouts," remarked Sheriff John Montgomery. Both Tammy and William Hanson are listed on the Baxter County Sherriff's Most Wanted list (to view: baxtercountysheriff.com/most_wanted.php).

It is believed the couple may be currently living outside Arkansas.

The HSUS notes that, had the Arkansas penalties been commensurate with those in other states, it would have empowered law enforcement authorities to pursue the Hansons elsewhere.

Background:
The couple operated the facility Every Dog Needs a Home. In October 2005, the Baxter County Sheriff's Department raided the facility and found 477 neglected dogs kept in unhealthy and inhumane conditions on the two-acre property.

The facility lacked proper shelter for the animals resulting in filth, overcrowding and fighting. Many of the animals were injured and at least five had died. The Humane Society of the United States and United Animal Nations responded and provided care for the dogs as the criminal case against the Hansons advanced. These groups also found homes or appropriate shelter for the dogs, including more than 100 pit bulls rescued from hurricane-stricken areas of Louisiana who were placed at the facility by an animal rescue group not associated with The HSUS' rescue efforts in Louisiana.

In Arkansas, animal cruelty is a misdemeanor with penalties including $1000 in fines and up to 1 year in jail per count. The Hansons face 20 misdemeanor counts.

Animal Cruelty/Human Violence Connection:
The connection between animal cruelty and human violence is well documented. The HSUS First Strike Campaign® raises public awareness and educates communities about this connection 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/firststrike.

The Investigators:
If you have any information on the whereabouts of Tammy or William Hanson, please contact the Baxter County Sherriff's office at (870) 424-4636, (870) 425-7000 or by email to: sheriff@baxtercountysheriff.com.

-30-

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.