The HSUS Offers Reward in Shooting Deaths of Jack, Sunshine and Rusty

October 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 fatally shooting two horses and a dog in Jena, Ala.

The Case:

News reports give the following account: On Oct. 4, three animals were found fatally shot in Jena, Ala. Jack and Sunshine, two horses who lived on neighboring properties on Foxfire Road, were killed as was Rusty, a red border collie who lived a few miles away on Shiloh Road. Witnesses report seeing an unfamiliar white car and hearing tires squealing in the area that morning.

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. To see our journalists' animal cruelty resource guide, which includes information on statistics, trends, laws and animal cruelty categories, go to: humanesociety.org/crueltyresources. 

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

The Investigators:

The Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is investigating. Anyone with information is asked to call 205-752-0616, or file a tip online at tcsoal.org. 

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/crueltyresources. 

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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.