Reward Offered In Warrenton, Missouri Dog Shooting Case

November 30, 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 shooting two dogs to death in Warrenton, Mo. earlier this month.

The Case:

News reports give the following account: Two St. Bernard-mixed dogs, Auggie, 6, and Junior, 2, were found shot to death off the Market Street Extension, Warrenton's busiest thoroughfare, in early November. Police found Julie McFarland's dogs lying side by side, each shot once in the head and facing away from the other, about a mile from their home. They had vanished the day before.

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 society," said Dale Bartlett, The HSUS' deputy manager for animal cruelty issues.  "Americans have no tolerance for violence against the creatures who share our world."

The Investigators:

Warrenton Police Department Lt. Davis Bernard is investigating. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call him at 636-456-4394.

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.

-30-

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.

The Central States Regional Office of The Humane Society of the United States, based in Naperville, Illinois, serves 9 states: Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio and Wisconsin.