Crimestoppers paying out cash for animal abuse tips

By Gary Scott on March 9, 2016 at 7:47am

Help for abused animals in Morgan and Scott counties is now only a phone call away.

Crimestoppers partnered with Protecting Animals Welfare Society, or Paws, and Scott County Dog Rescue to offer cash rewards for anyone providing information on animal abuse that leads to an arrest.

Volunteers say the initiative is in response to a new Illinois law that aims to crack down on animal abuse, which includes pets being left outside in extreme weather.

Morgan-Scott Crimestoppers vice-president Jen Brainerd spoke with our reporting partners at WICS ABC Newschannel 20.

“Cash talks. I hate to say that, but it really does. With it now being a misdemeanor, you’re going to court, and you’re going to be prosecuted, it’s going to be an issue,” she says.

Brainerd says she hopes other county Crimestoppers will also begin offering rewards for tips on animal abuse.