Reward Offered in Columbia County, Ga. Alligator Killing

The Humane Society of the United States and The Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust are offering a $2,500 reward for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for illegally killing an alligator in Columbia County, Ga. The alligator was found dead on private property behind Brown Feed and Seed on Washington Road in Evans, Ga. the morning of Monday, Aug. 24.

The Case:

According to the Department of Natural Resources, the animal was found with more than half of his body missing. His head was sawed off from his front legs forward, and his tail was severed from his body. The owner of Brown Feed and Seed explained to media sources that the alligator, called "Big Boy," was well-liked since he took up residence in the pond four years ago. The alligator reportedly weighed more than 200 pounds and was dragged out of the water before being killed.

"The callous poaching of this alligator is a serious crime and shows the disregard some individuals have of wildlife," said Cheryl McAuliffe, Georgia state director for The HSUS. "The HSUS applauds the Georgia Department of Natural Resources for thoroughly investigating this incident."

According to media reports, local CPA firm Hall, Hall & Associates is also offering a $500 reward for information and First Saturday Crew, a group that works on cleanup projects on the Augusta Canal, is offering $200 in restaurant gift certificates. With the $100 reward offered by Turn in Poachers for information on any wildlife taken out of season, this brings the total reward to $3,300.

If caught, the person or persons responsible could face a number of poaching charges, including trespassing, killing an animal out of season and possession of illegally taken wildlife. The person or persons could also face animal cruelty charges.

Poaching:

Every year, thousands of poachers are arrested nationwide; however, it is estimated that only 1 to 5 percent of poachers are caught. Poachers kill wildlife anytime, anywhere and sometimes do so in particularly cruel ways.

The Investigators:

Anyone with information about the case should call the Turn In Poachers 24-hour hot line at (800) 241-4113. Tips may remain anonymous.

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Reward Offered In Attack on Martinez, Georgia Family’s Dogs

The Humane Society of the United States is offering a reward up to $2,500 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for viciously killing a family's yellow Labrador retriever and severely injuring their other dog, a dachshund-mix. The HSUS reward is offered in addition to a $5,000 reward offered by the Fayetteville-based Holland M. Ware Charitable Foundation, raising the total reward available to $7,500.

The Case:
News reports give the following account: Bobby Jordan entered his home Dec. 3 to find his 3-year-old yellow Labrador, Tibby, lying dead with a visibly broken back. His family's other dog, a 1-year-old dachshund-mix named Daisy, was found clinging to life with multiple puncture wounds. Based on evidence at the scene, investigators believe the injuries were inflicted by a person. Authorities believe someone entered the family's yard between 7 a.m. and noon on Dec. 3. The family lives on the corner of Blue Ridge Road and Halifax Drive in Martinez, Ga.

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.

"Those who abuse animals can be dangerous to people," said Cheryl McAuliffe, The HSUS' Georgia state director. "Americans have no tolerance for violence against the creatures who share our world."

The Investigators:
The Columbia County Sheriff's Department is investigating. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call 706-541-1044.

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