Large Reward Being Offered By Humane Society

Cecilia awaits her future after being discovered taped shut in a tote.

Oskaloosa, Iowa – Cecilia sits in her kennel at the Stephen Memorial Animal Shelter in Oskaloosa. She continues to settle down, is playful with the staff, and will shortly be looking for a new home.

The story of Cecilia got national attention last week when news broke about the female cat being found taped shut in a plastic tote. Readers can find our original article about Cecilia by clicking HERE.

People were outraged by what had happened to the cat, and some offered up reward money to help bring those involved to justice.

On Wednesday, The Humane Society offered up a $5,000 reward “for information leading to the identification, arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for sealing a cat in a plastic tote and leaving her near the city brush dump in Oskaloosa, Iowa.”

The press release went on to say, “Getting the serious attention of law enforcement, prosecutors and residents in cases involving allegations of cruelty to animals is an essential step in protecting the community. The connection between animal cruelty and human violence is well documented. Studies show a correlation between animal cruelty and all manner of other crimes, from narcotics and firearms violations to battery and sexual assault.”

Josh Skipworth, Iowa state director for The HSUS, said, “Sealing a cat in a tote and leaving her to die is a vile and inexcusable act. We hope our reward helps track down the person or persons responsible.”

Oskaloosa Police Department is investigating. Anyone with information about the case is asked to call 641-672-2557.