A $3,000 reward is available for information leading to an arrest in the case of a cat who was shot in Putnam Lake—thanks to pledges from a local resident, the New York State Humane Association and a charity in Florida.
Members of The Putnam County SPCA are still investigating the Feb. 7 incident, which was reported by a resident of Rutland Drive in the Putnam Lake area of Patterson. The 7-month-old kitten, who was paralyzed after the shot, died a couple of days later.
Officials believe the person who shot Blackfoot used a high-powered BB gun or a low-caliber rifle.
The agency announced the reward Thursday for "information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for shooting and causing severe blunt force trauma," stating that the injury ultimately led to the black and brown calico cat's death.
"The New York State Humane Association has pledged $1,000 towards the reward. Chairperson Patricia Valusek stated 'These are serious crimes not to be taken lightly, as it has been documented that such violence can lead to attacks against humans,'" the SPCA said in a statement. "A representative of a small charity in the Florida Keys named 'The Meow Shack,' who aid in spaying and neutering feral cats and finding homes for displaced animals, has also pledged $1000 towards the reward. Lastly, a concerned local resident and animal lover has also pledged $1,000 towards the reward."
In August, a decapitated cat was found in the same area. SPCA officers have continued to investigate that incident, too. They have spoken with "dozens" of residents and have been in touch with local law enforcement agencies.
A reward was also available for information leading to an arrest in the decapitation case.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the agency at its 24-hour animal cruelty hotline (845-520-6915), or online at www.spcaputnam.org.
