Reward Offered in Washington County, Tenn. Animal Shootings

December 27, 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 the Dec. 18 deaths of six animals in Washington County, Tenn.

The Case:
News reports give the following account: At about 5 a.m., three cows, two horses and a German shepherd were shot and killed within five miles of each other in Washington County. The shootings occured on Conklin Road, Oklahoma Road and Jerry Scalf Road.

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 LeighAnn McCollum, The HSUS’ Tennessee state director. “Tennesseans should have no tolerance for violence against animals.”
 
The Investigators:
Anyone with information in this case is urged to call the Washington County Sheriff’s Office at 423-461-1414 or contact investigators through the department's website at www.wcso.net. All calls or e-mails may remain anonymous.

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 Humane Society of the United States 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.