The HSUS Offers Reward In Penn Township, Pa. St. Bernard Shooting

March 4, 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 St. Bernard who was found dead in Penn Township, Pa. on Feb. 26. 

The Case:

News reports give the following account: On Feb. 26, a motorist found a dead 4-year-old St. Bernard stuffed in a sleeping bag that had been placed in a ditch alongside Dutchtown Road. The 80-pound female purebred had been shot in the head.

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 Sarah Speed, The HSUS’ Pennsylvania director. “Pennsylvania residents should have no tolerance for violence against animals.” 

The Investigators:

The Penn Township Police Department is investigating. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call 724-586-1169. The Butler County Humane Society is offering a $1,450 reward in addition to The HSUS’ $2,500 reward, bringing the reward total to $3,950. 

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.