Reward Raised In Burke County, Ga. Animal Cruelty Case

July 9, 2008

The Humane Society of the United States is adding $2,500 to a reward fund for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for killing a dog in Burke County, Ga. The HSUS's offer raises the reward to $4,500, including $500 from Old Fella Burke County Animal Rescue and $1,500 from the Atlanta Humane Society.

The Case:

Old Fella Burke County Animal Rescue officials give the following account: A stray female dog being cared for by local residents until she could be moved to a foster home was found shot to death. After finding the dog at the county dumpster at Quaker Road and Story Mill on June 29, the volunteers placed food and water dishes at the site until they could find a home for the dog, whom they named Brandy. A person who agreed to house the dog arrived at the site on July 1 to find Brandy had been fatally shot.

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 Cheryl McAuliffe, The HSUS’ Georgia state director. “Americans have no tolerance for violence against the creatures who share our world.” 

The Investigators:

The Burke County Sheriff’s Department is investigating. Anyone with information is urged to call 706-554-2133. 

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.