HSUS Offers Reward in the Case of Apparent Dog Poisonings at Portland Park

The Humane Society of the United States
Thursday, 17 July 2003

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is offering a $2,500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the killing of eight dogs allegedly poisoned at Laurelhurst Park in Portland, Oregon earlier this month.

Both CrimeStoppers and Oregon Humane Society are each offering a $1,000 reward, bringing the total reward to $4,500. The Lucky Labrador Brewery, a local pub and restaurant, is holding fundraisers to add to the reward. The next fundraiser is tonight from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

At least eight dogs have died, and up to five more are showing some symptoms of poisoning, according to reports. According to representatives at Dove Lewis Veterinary Clinic, all the dogs had visited the popular Southeast Portland Park between July 3 and 9.

"Anyone capable of so intentionally and maliciously poisoning defenseless animals poses a potential danger to other animals and people in the community," says Kelly Peterson, Oregon program coordinator with The HSUS Pacific Northwest Regional Office. "The connection between animal abuse and violence against humans is well documented. I hope this reward will help bring those responsible for this crime to justice before another animal or possibly a person is harmed."

In Oregon, the penalty for animal cruelty is a felony. Penalties include a maximum fine of $100,000 and up to five years in prison. Psychological counseling may also be ordered for animal cruelty offenders.

The HSUS First Strike Campaign® raises public awareness and educates communities about the connection between animal cruelty and human violence. Through the program, The HSUS provides resources to law enforcement agencies, social work professionals, educators, legislators and citizens to learn about the connection and what people can do to combat animal cruelty. The HSUS also offers rewards for animal cruelty cases across the country and works to strengthen laws against animal cruelty.

Portland Police Bureau's Southeast Precinct is investigating this case. Anyone with information about this case is asked to please contact Detective William Crockett at 503-823-2177.

The HSUS is the nation's largest animal protection organization with more than seven million members and constituents. The HSUS is a mainstream voice for animals, with active programs in companion animals and equine protection, wildlife and habitat protection, animals in research and farm animals and sustainable agriculture. For nearly 50 years, The HSUS has protected all animals through legislation, litigation, investigation, education, advocacy and fieldwork.

The non-profit organization is based in Washington, DC and has 10 regional offices across the country. The HSUS Pacific Northwest Regional Office serves Oregon and Washington.

For more information, or to contact The Humane Society of the United States, see their website at: www.hsus.org