News Release from: Clackamas Co. Sheriff's Office

Sheriff's Office investigates after cat shot with pellet gun

Posted: August 15, 2009, 4:40 p.m.

Please reference Clackamas County Sheriff's Office Case Number 09-25052

On Friday, Aug. 14, 2009 at about 9 p.m., the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office received a report of a cat that had been injured -- possibly shot -- in an unincorporated area of Milwaukie.

During their initial investigation, deputies were unable to determine the definitive cause of injury to the cat. Additionally, deputies were unable to identify any potential suspects.

The animal was transported to Dove Lewis Animal Hospital, where it was found to have been shot with a pellet gun, causing injuires to the cat's shoulder and spine. The cat was compassionately euthanized.

On Saturday, Aug. 15, the Sheriff's Office received additional information that a person of interest had been identified -- and had admitted to shooting what he believed to be feral cats with a pellet gun. This person of interest was reportedly apologetic and remorseful when he realized the deceased cat was a family pet.

The person of interest was interviewed by a Clackamas County deputy, and the pellet gun has been seized. The Sheriff's Office wants the community to know this is an isolated incident. The Sheriff's Office has not released the identity of the person of interest -- as the investigation is continuing and no criminal charges have been filed.

[END]

Jeff Davis, Lieutenant
Acting Public Information Officer
Clackamas County Sheriff's Office