The Humane Society of the United States is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest in the case of a litter of puppies who were intentionally burned in Lexington, Kentucky.
The Case:On May 29, 2024, a local resident found a litter of 13 puppies—who were estimated to be only 8 days old—at an intersection near Todds Road and North Cleveland. Seven of the puppies had died as a result of what law enforcement authorities say was intentional burning. They were rushed to a veterinarian where the staff treated the surviving puppies but ultimately, all of the puppies died from the horrendous torture they endured. Lt. Jai Hamilton, animal cruelty investigator for Lexington-Fayette Animal Care and Control, plans to file 13 counts of animal cruelty in the first degree, all felonies, against the individual(s) responsible for this shocking act of torture.
“It is heartbreaking to even imagine what horrendous torture these puppies went through at only 8 days old,” says Todd Blevins, Kentucky state director for the Humane Society of the United States. “There is no excuse for this kind of cruelty. We hope our reward helps find the perpetrator of this despicable act.”
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: Lexington-Fayette Animal Care and Control is investigating this case. Anyone with relevant information is asked to email animal cruelty investigator Lt. Jai Hamilton at jhamilton@lfacc.org.
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 work to strengthen laws against animal cruelty.