Cat Helps Lead to Child Abuser's Conviction

When 9-year-old Beth* was sexually abused by her stepfather, she told the prosecuting attorney that someone else knew about it -- but that he couldn't talk. She was referring to her beloved cat, Oreo.

In trying to protect her, the loyal cat also became another victim of violence; Beth's stepfather would always brutally kick Oreo away from the door.
Beth's revelation gave the prosecutor an idea. She decided to have Oreo examined by a veterinarian. Sure enough, poor Oreo had sustained injuries consistent with being physically abused.

When the prosecutor submitted the veterinarian’s report to the jury as evidence showing a pattern of violence in the home, Beth's allegations gained credibility. In a way, Oreo was able to testify, convincing the jury that the traumatized girl had been telling the truth.

American Humane regularly conducts trainings for attorneys, judges, veterinarians, social workers, domestic-violence counselors and other social services providers on what American Humane calls The Link®. By unmasking the connection between violence to people and violence to animals, we will increase awareness of the powerful role it can play in preventing abuse.

Thanks to The Link, Beth's stepfather was convicted and received a long prison sentence. Meanwhile, Beth and Oreo were finally able to experience what every child and animal deserves: a safe home.

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