The HSUS Offers Reward in Atlantic City, N.J. Puppy's Death

July 30, 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 throwing a Boston terrier from an overpass onto the Atlantic City Expressway on July 24. The $2,500 reward is in addition to a $1,000 reward offered by New Jersey SPCA Chief Carl Galioto, $250 offered by New Jersey Aid for Animals and $50 offered by a private citizen.  

The Case:

News reports give the following account: The puppy was tossed or thrown from the bridge at about 11:55 p.m. and was struck by a vehicle driving on the highway at milepost 0.8. No people were injured in the collision. Atlantic County SPCA President Nancy Beall said the unspayed female puppy was less than 6 months old and sustained most of her injuries to the head. 

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 people,” said Barbara Dyer, The HSUS’s New Jersey state director. “Americans have no tolerance for violence against the creatures who share our world.” 

The Investigators:

The Atlantic County SPCA is investigating. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call 609-927-9059. 

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.