The HSUS Offers Reward In Brutal Cicero, Ind. Cat Killings

August 11, 2008

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 ­­­­­­­­­torturing and beating four cats to death in Cicero, Ind. The Feral Bureau of Indianapolis, a feral cat protection group and the Hamilton County Humane Society have also offered rewards that total $1,500.

The Case:

News reports give the following account: At least four cats have been found tortured and beaten to death in Cicero. Kathy McGuffey found her elderly cat, Thomasina, lifeless and badly beaten July 28. Anne Dunn said her 6-year-old cat, Gracie, was also killed. Dunn took Gracie to nursing facilities to help Alzheimer's patients.

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.

The HSUS urges animal guardians to keep cats indoors where they are safer and healthier. Cats allowed to roam outdoors face threats from traffic, diseases, poisons and injuries inflicted by other animals. And too often, when cats are allowed outside, they fall victim to animal cruelty.

“Those who abuse animals can be dangerous to people,” said Anne Sterling, The HSUS’s Indiana state director. “Americans have no tolerance for violence against the creatures who share our world.” 

The Investigators:

The Cicero Police Department is investigating. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call 317-984-3648. 

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 10.5 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.