The Humane Society of the United States offered a $2,500 reward today for information leading to the identification, arrest, and conviction of the person or persons responsible for shootings at a colony of abandoned cats that were being cared for as homes were found for them. Alley Cat Allies also mentioned the incident in a mass email sent out today. The case is being investigated by the Parish sheriff’s office and the Humane Society of Louisiana.
Someone abandoned 25 friendly cats on a property in Ethel, Louisiana, a very small town with no shelter or department of animal control, and kind hearted souls took it upon themselves to bring them food and water until rescuers were able to find them homes.
A volunteer caretaker named Amy discovered what is being called the Ethel Cat Massacre when she arrived to feed the cats on Monday November 12. Someone had shot several of the cats, hitting some in the eye, some in the leg, and some in the behind, leaving them for dead. Some cats died at the scene or at the vet, but others have survived. Luckily, not all were hit, though all were traumatized. Community Cat Coalition of South Louisiana members are helping the cats and providing updates at Facebook. All Pets Hospital and Associated Veterinary Services of Baton Rouge are providing medical care to the wounded, tending to damaged eyes and removing bullets from legs. The wounded are now healing.
Volunteers made a plea for help in identifying the shooter after making the horrific discovery, and anyone with information was asked to contact the East Feliciana Parish Sheriff’s Office at 225-683-8572 or 225-683-5459 (criminal division).
WAFB 9 has covered the case, reporting on the massacre, and doing a followup after the Humane Society of the United states offered a reward.
Jim Shannon of WAFB found fresh 4 wheeler tracks leading from house in the back through the cats’ yard when he was at the scene, lending credence to the theory that the shooters were kids on four-wheelers.
While those close to the case grieve for the dead, they turn their efforts to help the survivors to heal and find good loving homes, as investigators work to bring the guilty to justice.
WAFB report from last week:
WAFB 9 News Baton Rouge, Louisiana News, Weather, Sports
The HSUS issued the following news release today:
The Humane Society of the United States Offers Reward in Ethel, La., Cat Deaths
The Humane Society of the United States is offering a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the shooting deaths of several cats in Ethel, La.
The Case: News reports give the following account: On Nov. 12, Northside Humane Society volunteers caring for a group of about 25 community cats in Ethel reported that they found several cats shot. Veterinarians who treated the cats said that the animals were shot at close range by a .22-caliber rifle. The gunman or gunmen shot the cats in their eyes and rectums, primarily. At least four cats have died as a result of their injuries.
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.
“This is an inexcusable crime that deserves the serious attention of law enforcement and the community. It is well documented that those who abuse animals can move on to abuse people, too. We hope our reward helps bring forward information that will help find the heartless person who hurt these innocent creatures,” said Julia Breaux, Louisiana state director for The Humane Society of the United States.
The Investigators: Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the East Feliciana Parish Sheriff’s Department at (225) 683-8572.
Photos via Community Cat Coalition of South Louisiana.
This is horrific! Would like to shoot them in their eyes and rectums! Barbaric bastards! Too many useless waste of space twisted creeps on this earth!