The Humane Society of the United States is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for starving a dog and then dumping the dog’s remains in a river.
The Case: According to the Clay County Sheriff’s Office in conjunction with Clay County Animal Services, around March 3, 2024, local kayakers found a deceased pit bull-type dog locked inside a wire crate that was submerged in a river. Upon necropsy of the dog, it was discovered that the dog died of starvation possibly before being locked in the crate and tossed into the river.
“It takes a truly callous person to starve a dog to death and then dump the body in a river,” said Kate MacFall, Florida state director for the Humane Society of the United States. “We’re incredibly thankful the Clay County Sherrif’s Office is fully investigating this crime and hope the reward helps find the person or persons who committed this appalling act.”
Animal Cruelty: Securing the serious attention and engagement of law enforcement officials, prosecutors and residents in cases involving allegations of cruelty to animals is an essential step in protecting the whole community. The connection between animal cruelty and human violence is well documented. Studies show a correlation between animal cruelty and many other crimes, from narcotics and firearms violations to battery and sexual assault.
The Investigators: Clay County Sheriff’s Office are investigating this case. Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact Detective G. Winterstein at 904-591-4551 or gwinterstein@claysheriff.com.
Resources: The Humane Society of the United States raises public awareness and educates communities about the connection between animal cruelty and human violence while providing a variety of resources and support to law enforcement agencies, social work professionals, educators, legislators and families. We offer rewards in animal cruelty cases across the country and works to strengthen laws against animal cruelty.