Reward Offered In Phillipsburg, N.J., Dog Abandonment Case

December 17, 2007

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 abandoning two dogs near Phillipsburg, N.J. on Dec. 8.

The Case:
News reports give the following account: Two dogs—one alive and one dead—were found stuffed inside a white plastic garbage bag that had been discarded in woods off Lock Street near Phillipsburg, N.J., The surviving dog—a white female poodle now known as Locky—is about 5 years old.  She was recovering from severe malnutrition at Warren Animal Hospital in Lopatcong Township, N.J. at the time of this release.

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, too,” said Barbara Dyer, The HSUS’ Mid-Atlantic Regional Office program coordinator. “New Jersey and Pennsylvania residents should have no tolerance for violence against animals.”

The Investigators:
The Lopatcong Police Department is investigating. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call Sgt. Scott Bisci at 908-859-1212.

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 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.