Reward Offered In Kings Park, NY Goat's Kidnapping, Death

August 28, 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 strangling a pet goat in Kings Park, N.Y. This raises the reward total to $12,500, including $1,000 from the Suffolk County SPCA and multiple donations from concerned citizens.

The Case:

According to Suffolk County SPCA investigators: Two pet goats were taken from Raleigh's Farm in Kings Park between 8:30 p.m. Aug. 17 and 8 a.m. Aug. 18. Forced entry was found to a gate at the 335 Old Indian Head Road farm. One of the goats was found dead while the other remains missing. The deceased goat, Teddy, was found lying on a nearby street with a belt wrapped tightly around his neck. He was wearing the blue collar his guardians had given him. 

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 Suffolk County SPCA is investigating. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call 631-382-SPCA (7722). 

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.