Reward Offered In Brutal Santa Anna, Texas Pig Stabbings

December 6, 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 brutally stabbing nine baby pigs in Santa Anna, Texas in August.  

The Case:
News reports give the following account: Nine 6-week-old pigs were brutally stabbed at a south Santa Anna home during the night of Aug. 30 or the morning of Aug. 31. Five pigs died instantly. Two suffering pigs had to be euthanized and two other pigs survived their injuries and were taken to a Coleman, Texas veterinary clinic for rehabilitation. Perry Patrick raised the pigs for show for his grandchildren. Police have few leads in the case.

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 Lou Guyton, The HSUS’ southwest regional office director. “Texans should have no tolerance for violence against animals.”

The Investigators:
The Santa Anna police department is investigating. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the police department at 325-348-3147 or Santa Anna City Hall at 325-348-3403 or the Coleman County Sheriff’s department, 325-625-3506.

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 .