Reward Offered In Troy, N.Y. Animal Cruelty Case

July 8, 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 the death of a cat whose mutilated remains were found in luggage on the Hudson River. The HSUS's reward is in addition to a $500 reward offered by the New York State Humane Association.

The Case:

Media reports give the following account: On June 8, a man found a yellow luggage bag in shallow water on the Hudson River near Madison Street and immediately notified police. The bag contained the remains of a short-haired brown tabby cat. Necropsy results indicate that the cat was tortured and mutilated while still alive. 

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 Patrick Kwan, The HSUS’s New York state director. “Americans have no tolerance for violence against the creatures who share our world.” 

The Investigators:

The Troy Police Department is investigating. Anyone with information is urged to call the department’s detective bureau at 518-270-4426. 

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.