[EDITOR’S NOTE: The opinions expressed in the following Letter to the Editor are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of South King Media or its staff.]
Dear Editor,
The case involving the Burien man who allegedly killed cats and threatened to kill his own father (read our previous coverage here) may be a textbook example of what law enforcement professionals call “the link” between cruelty to animals and interpersonal violence.
Abusing animals is a cowardly act. The FBI uses reports of cruelty to animals when assessing the threat potential of suspected and known criminals, and classifies such acts as felonious, alongside arson, burglary, assault, and homicide.
The American Psychiatric Association also identifies cruelty to animals as one of the diagnostic criteria for conduct disorders.
Research confirms the danger. People who abuse animals are five times more likely to commit violent crimes against humans. In one study of 153 people prosecuted for cruelty to animals, 70% also had criminal records for violent, property, drug, or other offenses.
We must take crimes against animals seriously. If you see or suspect that someone is harming animals, report them to authorities immediately – for everyone’s safety.
Sincerely,
Melissa Rae Sanger
The PETA Foundation
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