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 shooting a cat with an arrow in Cedar County, Iowa.
The Case: Around Oct. 30, 2022, family members found Atticus, a red tabby domestic short hair cat, shot by a possible crossbow arrow and barely able to walk or stand. Atticus was immediately rushed to his veterinarian where he received emergency care and is still recovering from the wounds, pain and trauma.
Preston Moore, Iowa state director for the Humane Society of the United States, says: “I am incredibly thankful to law enforcement in Cedar County for taking this case seriously from day one. These sorts of violent acts endanger not only animals, but also every member of our communities,” he said. “Atticus is incredibly lucky—he likely survived only because the perpetrator is a bad shot. I highly encourage anyone with knowledge of this attack on Atticus to come forward with that information so the Cedar County Sheriff’s Office can investigate the matter fully.”
Iowa Rep. Bobby Kaufmann, R-Wilton, says: “I want to thank the Cedar County Sheriff’s Office for their always and ongoing superb work. The men and women working every day to keep our communities safe are undeniably heroes—and that includes their work and dedication to stomping out animal cruelty. Animal abuse has no place in Iowa and I am proud that the folks at the Sheriff’s Office are giving this case the attention it deserves. I wish Atticus the cat a speedy and full recovery and many healthy years to come with his family. And I hope the criminal investigation comes to a swift and just conclusion.”
Chief Deputy Knoche of the Cedar County Sheriff’s Office says: “We appreciate any help in this case and we do not tolerate any type of animal cruelty or abuse in Cedar County and we will do everything possible to fully investigate this case. We would like to thank the vet clinic and the Humane Society of the United States for the assistance in this case.”
Animal Cruelty: Securing the serious attention and engagement of law enforcement, 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: The Cedar County Sheriff’s Office are investigating this case. Anyone with relevant information is asked to call the Cedar County Sheriff’s Office at 563-886-2121.
Resources: The Humane Society of the United States’ Animal Cruelty Campaign 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.