The HSUS Offers Reward In Coxsackie, N.Y. Teaching Dog's Death

December 12, 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 the Nov. 21 shooting death of Baron, a 6-year-old German shepherd, who belonged to a Coxsackie Police Department sergeant.

The Case:

News reports give the following account: A Coxsackie Police Department sergeant's German shepherd was found dead, shot once between the eyes, a few yards away from his Coxsackie home on Nov. 21. Sgt. Mark Barkman said his 6-year-old dog, Baron, was a fixture in the community and was used to teach children through the "Kids & K-9" program.

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 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:

Catskill State Police is investigating. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call 518- 731-8122. The reward offered in this case, including The HSUS' $2,500 contribution, is $3,000.

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.