BOONSBORO, Md.—Humane World for Animals, formerly called the Humane Society of the United States, is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for shooting at least eight cats with steel razor-tip blow gun darts.
The Case: According to the Humane Society of Washington County, eight cats have been found injured or dead after being shot by steel razor-tip blow gun darts. Seven were found near Park Hall Road and Amos Reeder Road in Boonsboro on Sept. 6, and an additional cat was found with consistent injuries on Sept. 12. Six of the cats succumbed to their wounds while two survived and are expected to make a full recovery.
Animal Cruelty: Securing the serious attention and engagement of law enforcement, prosecutors and residents in cases involving allegations of cruelty to animals is an essential step in protecting the whole community. The connection between animal cruelty and human violence is well documented. Studies show a correlation between animal cruelty and many other crimes, from narcotics and firearms violations to battery and sexual assault.
“It’s sickening to think about the horror and pain these cats suffered, while deeply disturbing to realize that a person is choosing to torment cats in this way,” said Stacey Volodin, Maryland state director, Humane World for Animals. “We are incredibly thankful to the Humane Society of Washington County for investigating this crime, and we hope this reward helps find the person or persons responsible for these appalling acts.”
The Investigators: The Humane Society of Washington County Field Service Division is investigating this case. Anyone with relevant information is asked to call 240-707-3082 or email casetips@hswcmd.org.
Resources: Humane World for Animals’ Animal Cruelty Campaign raises public awareness and educates communities about the connection between animal cruelty and human violence while providing a variety of resources and support to law enforcement agencies, social work professionals, educators, legislators and families. We offer rewards in animal cruelty cases across the country and works to strengthen laws against animal cruelty.
In addition to the $5,000 reward offered by Humane World for Animals, the HSWC is also offering a reward of $2,500 for information leading to an arrest and successful prosecution of the crime.
