In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, while Pasado's Safe Haven was in New Orleans rescuing 1200 animals, our lead investigator (Mark Steinway) got a call about three schools, in St. Bernard Parish, where hurricane evacuees had temporarily lived. They were forced to leave all of their pets behind - dogs tied up on leashes, cats in carriers.
The call Mark received reported all the animals - 33 dogs and cats, had been shot to death. We called the Louisiana State Attorney General's Office. Investigators joined Mark at the schools. We went to the local Wal-Mart and bought 33 Rubbermaid tubs, in which to scoop up the remains of the bodies for forensic investigation. We returned to the schools, and under the watchful eyes of the AG's Office Investigators, recovered all the bodies, shell casings and other evidence. It was found that the dogs had been shot in the body cavity, neck, joints, and legs, creating prolonged suffering for them.
We drove all of the remains, which had literally melted into the floors in the heat, to the State of Louisiana's Veterinary Teaching Hospital for necropsies. Pasado's Safe Haven paid for $7700.00 for necropsies to prove the animals suffered. The Louisiana State Attorney General launched an investigation but so far, nothing has come of it. Go to www.pasadosafehaven.org for history.
GREAT NEWS ANNOUNCED TODAY!
As we've patiently waited for the wheels of justice to turn in a criminal case, Pasado's has been delighted to work with a passionate attorney in New Orleans to see this case through as a civil matter on behalf of the people whose pets were killed. Today's Los Angeles Times article describes the civil suit that we're supporting with time, investigation, interviews with witnesses, the necropsy reports and one of our staff members (a paralegal) and all filing fees to bring this case to court. Eileen Comiskey, the brilliant New Orleans attorney, is leading the efforts on behalf of plaintiffs. Many people, including Jennifer Bishton, Marilyn McGee, and many others are doing so much foot-work to assist. Our deepest gratitude to ALL who are making this happen!
PLEASE NOTE!
Pasado's Safe Haven is attempting to help the attorney in this case and we are a small non-profit. The attorney is donating hundreds of her hours.
We need filing fees, fees for depositions, airmiles, and pre-paid long-distance phone cards. Can you help? Please donate here:
And please cross-post to friends who can help. We need those who committed this horrible act to pay.
For all of the animals who died, and their guardians who mourn for them, thank you!!!!
