Reward Offered In Whitehaven, Tenn. Puppy Burning Case

October 2, 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 burning a 3-month-old puppy to death in Whitehaven, Tenn.

The Case:

News reports give the following account: On July 29, police and animal control officers found a severely burned puppy at 1605 Kilarney in Whitehaven. The puppy subsequently died of his injuries. Due to lack of evidence, on Sept. 12., General Sessions Criminal Court Judge Loyce Lambert-Ryan was forced to dismiss charges against two male suspects accused of committing the crime. Deputy District Attorney Gen. James Challen said the case would be reviewed and presented to a grand jury if witnesses come forward to provide information about 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 Leighann McCollum, The HSUS’s Tennessee state director. “Someone knows the truth about what happened to this puppy, and we hope this reward leads them to contact investigators so justice can be sought.” 

The Investigators:

Memphis Animal Services is continuing its investigation. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call 901-546-8649. 

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.