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 dragging a pit bull behind a pickup truck in Alabama.
The Case:
News reports give the following account: On Sept. 2 at approximately 6 p.m., a road construction crew witnessed a dog being dragged behind a black, four-door late-model pickup truck on Highway 113 in Flomaton, Ala.
The pickup truck appeared to be traveling with a white SUV and a red car. The vehicles stopped and several men got out. They cut the rope the dog was attached to and then departed the scene, leaving the severely injured animal lying on the road. A second pit bull remained in the back of the truck as it drove off.
Construction workers called the Sheriff's Department, who in turn dispatched Renee Jones, director of the Escambia County Humane Society. The dog was taken immediately to the Atmore Animal Clinic. Due to the severity of his injuries, the dog was euthanized.
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 Mindy Gilbert, The HSUS' Alabama state director. "Americans have no tolerance for violence against the creatures who share our world."
The Investigators:
The Escambia County Humane Society is investigating. Anyone with information relating to this case is asked to contact Renee Jones at 251-867-6860.
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 10.5 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.
