$6,000 reward offered for Big Island cat killers

Advertiser Staff

Three animal rights groups have posted a reward for information leading to arrests and convictions in the deaths of three Big Island feral cats.

The cats' bodies were found hanging by their necks from strings near the Honokohau Small Boat Harbor at Kailua, Kona last month.

Tissue samples were taken to determine whether they might have been poisoned, according to a Humane Society press release.

No suspects in the deaths have been identified.

The reward totals $6,000. The Humane Society of the United States and People for Ethical Treatment of Animals each contributed $2,500, and the Big Island Humane Society added $1,000.

The cats were hung in front of a sign warning against feeding the feral population. A woman who is part of a group that regularly feeds the wild felines discovered the bodies.

Anyone with information may call (808) 987-7214. Calls are kept confidential.