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 causing severe and ultimately fatal injuries to a yellow tabby cat in Moss Point.
The Case:
According to media reports: Lorraine Zielinski's yellow tabby cat, Bootsie, was discovered missing on Wednesday, April 23. Three days later, Bootsie returned home with injuries consistent with a gunshot to his face. Due to the injuries as well as a severe blood infection and a fever, a veterinarian euthanized the cat.
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 Dale Bartlett, deputy manager of The HSUS' animal cruelty campaign. "The good people of Mississippi have no tolerance for violence against the creatures who share our world."
Maliciously injuring cats or dogs is a misdemeanor in Mississippi, punishable by imprisonment for up to 6 months and a fine of not more than $1,000. The HSUS rates Mississippi's animal cruelty statutes as the weakest in the nation.
The Investigators:
The Jackson County Animal Shelter is investigating this case. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call 228-497-6350.
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.
