The U.S. Humane Society offers reward in Russellville cat killing

RUSSLLVILLE, AR— 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 killing a cat in Russellville, AR. to send a political message.

According to reports, on January 22, Jacob Burris, campaign manager for Congressional candidate Ken Aden, found his cat dead on his doorstep with the word "liberal" scrawled on his body. The adult, mix-Siamese cat had apparently been beaten to death.

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.

"Viciously killing a cat to send a political message is shockingly cruel and is a crime that should be punished to the fullest extent of the law," said Ann Chynoweth, senior director of the Animal Cruelty, Rescue and Response Team for The Humane Society of the United States. "Our sympathies go out to the Burris family for the loss of their pet and we hope our reward helps catch whoever committed this heinous act of animal cruelty."

The Russellville Police Department is investigating. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call 479-968-3232.