Reward
Offered in North Carolina Pelican Cruelty Case
January
12, 2010 –
Brunswick County, North Carolina (NC) - 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 breaking the wings of 10 brown pelicans in Brunswick
County, N.C.
The Case:
News reports give the
following account: Between Dec. 17 and Dec. 31, 10 pelicans were
found washed ashore on
Bald Head Island,
Oak Island, Holden Beach and Caswell Beach. The birds were
suffering from broken wings. Some of the birds had drowned, and the
rest had to be euthanized as a result of their injuries. In 2007,
there was a similar string of pelican injuries in the same area.
“The infliction of such
egregious cruelty on these birds is a serious crime,” said Kimberley
Alboum, North Carolina state director for The HSUS. “Clearly the
person or persons responsible have a callous disregard for wildlife
laws and the species they are intended to protect.”
If caught, the individual or
individuals face numerous violations of state and federal law.
Maliciously maiming an animal is a felony in North Carolina.
Pelicans are also protected under the federal Migratory Bird Treaty
Act.
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.
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
this case should contact the North Carolina Wildlife Resource
Commission at 800-662-7137.
The HSUS works to stop
wildlife abuse and animal cruelty across the country. Visit
www.humanesociety.org/wildlifeabuse for more information.
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