American Humane Calls for Citizen Action to Stop Animal Abuse; Urges Prosecution

American Humane Association
Friday, 13 December 2002

In response to the abuse case of Noel, a german shepard mix puppy, American Humane today called for authorities to continue to investigate this case and, once the perpetrators have been located, to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law. Residents of Columbus, Georgia are urged to report suspected cases of animal abuse or neglect. American Humane, the only national organization dedicated to both child and animal protection, made this call in light of growing research indicating that adults and children who are violent to animals have the capacity to also be violent to humans -- a correlation commonly referred to as The Link.

As reported in the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer, animal control officers found the 16-week-old puppy wandering through Rigdon Park. The puppy's ears had recently been chopped down to the skull by what appear to be pinking shears or a jagged knife. Dry blood had accumulated in the area where the puppy's ears had been. The puppy was brought to Columbus County Animal Control where he is receiving appropriate care and being prepped for adoption. No arrests have been made in relation to this episode of animal cruelty, but a $1,500 award is being offered for information leading to the perpetrator of this crime.

"This instance of abuse should not be dismissed as minor mischievousness," said American Humane's director of Shelter Services, Jodi Buckman. "Animal abuse is a warning sign, a red flag, that the person responsible could commit more violent crimes directed at humans in the future. We urge authorities to recognize the seriousness of this crime and convict the person responsible."

In the event the perpetrator is found, American Humane recommends the abuser be prosecuted and that the sentence include psychological evaluation, professional counseling, and, if age appropriate, incarceration with rehabilitation. Authorities are also asked to immediately take any remaining animals into protective custody and prohibit the abuser from owning or harboring animals in the future.

Historically, animal and child abuse, domestic violence, and elder abuse have been treated as unrelated events. However, research continues to emerge indicating premeditated torture or killing of animals often occurs in conjunction with, or as a precursor to, other types of violent behavior, such as child abuse, domestic violence, gang activity, and even satanic ritual. The evidence is so overwhelming (see attached fact sheet) that 37 states, Georgia being one of them, and the District of Columbia currently have felony convictions for serious acts of animal abuse.

"We're not saying everyone who abuses animals will become a serial killer, but animal abuse is a warning that action is needed to stop the cycle of increasing violence. Animal abuse must be reported to authorities. Perpetrators must be held accountable for their actions and treatment must be delivered. Not only do we owe it to the animals, we owe it to our community," Jodi Buckman concluded.

American Humane urges residents of Columbus to contact local law enforcement with any information leading to the perpetrator. Donations to help with veterinary costs for Noel can be sent to Muscogee County Humane Society, c/o Noel Fund, 7133 Sacerdote Lane, Columbus, GA, 31907.

Founded in 1877, American Humane is the nation's only national organization dedicated to both child and animal protection. From its headquarters outside Denver, Colorado, and from regional offices in Washington, DC, and Los Angeles, American Humane provides national leadership in the development of programs, policies, and services on behalf of children and animals who are abused and neglected. For more information on what to do if you suspect animal abuse, please visit www.americanhumane.org.

For more information, or to contact American Humane Association, see their website at: www.americanhumane.org