News

Thursday, January 15, 2009
For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Angela Speed
E-mail: aspeed@animalfriendly.org

Recent Crimes Against Animals Spark Grave Concern
Violence against animals and humans linked

WISCONSIN – Wisconsin residents were horrified to hear the news of not only the savage killing of six deer in Waupaca County, but also the slaying of fifty-seven ducks on the Fond du Lac River and the even more recent deaths of 60 ducks in Fort Atkinson.

The evidence of a link between cruelty to animals and violence toward humans is compelling. In fact, people who abuse animals are five times more likely to commit violent crime, four times more likely to commit property crimes and three times more likely to have drug or disorderly conduct offenses.

Whenever an animal is abused, a chain reaction begins in the community. Not only does an innocent animal get injured, but the person who commits the offense often falls into a cycle that could ultimately result in violence against other people. Countless violent offenders such as those responsible for the Columbine shootings, as well as Jeffrey Dahmer, had histories of animal abuse. The Federal Bureau of Investigation even incorporates animal cruelty into its “threat assessment” technique. Animal abuse is something the FBI believes is prominently displayed in the histories of people who are habitually violent.

Animal Friendly Wisconsin encourages residents to contact their legislators to express concern over the welfare of animals in their areas. Make sure your local officials are taking these crimes seriously and following through with strict penalties. You can help end the cycle of violence and educate people to appreciate all living creatures.

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