Reward Offered In Rochester, Minn. Dog Shooting

November 14, 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 shooting a basset hound in her family's front yard in Rochester, Minn.

The Case: According to news reports, on a recent evening Kayla Jensen and Jason Horsman heard gunshots outside of their home in Rochester. Going out to investigate, they found their 5-year-old basset hound, Amara JoAnn, lying on the ground with her paws outstretched, shaking and bleeding. The dog had been shot in the head and stomach, and died on the way to the emergency veterinary clinic. Jenson and Horsman had adopted Amara JoAnn, who they say suffered from previous abuse, from a pound two years ago.

"Those who abuse animals can be dangerous to people," said Jill Fritz, The HSUS's Minnesota state director. "Minnesota residents will not tolerate violence against animals and demand that those who hurt them be held responsible."

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.

 The Investigators: Investigator Joel Blahnik with the Rochester Police Department is investigating this case. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Rochester's Safe City Tip Line at 507-328-6888.

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.

-30-

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.