Reward offered in hunt for animal abuser

PHOTOGRAPHER: Bethany Bump

Community outrage over the recent discovery of three pit bull puppies nailed to railroad tracks was so vehement that a reward is now being offered to bring the abusers to justice.

District Attorney P. David Soares nuzzled one of the puppies at a news conference Friday where he and humane society officials announced a $7,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible.

The story made headlines Saturday when railroad workers discovered the puppies with their paws nailed to railroad tracks at North Pearl Street. They were severely dehydrated and in critical condition, and they hadn’t eaten in two or three days. They had apparently been left to die.

One of the puppies died earlier this week from its injuries, and the other two are still recovering at the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society.

“We know someone knows something, and we are hoping with the announcement of the reward that someone will do the right thing and come forward with information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for this horrific attack,” Humane Society Executive Director Brad Shear said in a news release. “The person or persons who did this are dangerous and depraved individuals, and I am not only worried about the safety of the animals of Albany County but also the people as well.”

The Mohawk Hudson Humane Society is currently looking for a foster home that can monitor the recovery of the puppies, whose health has improved since the incident.

Soares said his office is working closely with city police to investigate the incident. “Any vicious attack on defenseless animals such as these pit bull puppies will be prosecuted to the fullest extent and those responsible will face swift and severe justice,” he said in the news release.

Anyone with information regarding the abuse is asked to contact Albany police at 462-8039.