The HSUS Offers Reward in Memphis, Tenn. Pit Bull Burning Death

February 5, 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 setting fire to a pit bull named MiMi in Memphis, Tenn. a couple of days before Christmas.

The Case:
News reports give the following account: A couple of days before Christmas, Antoine Draper got word that his pit bull, MiMi, had been set on fire. When he arrived at the dog's side, he found the pregnant pit bull ablaze. Despite the fire, MiMi proceeded to give birth to her puppies. She didn't survive the attack.

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’s deputy manager for animal cruelty issues. “Americans have no tolerance for violence against the creatures who share our world.”

The Investigators:
The Memphis Police Department is investigating. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Lt. Cindy Capps at 901-545-4787 or Lt. Jasper Clay at 901-545-3114.

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.