$5,000 Reward For Information On Three Kittens Left To Die In A Trash Compactor In Virginia

A $5,000 reward is being offered by Animal Legal Defense Fund (ALDF) for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for leaving three kittens to die in a trash compactor near the Darlington Heights convenience site in Prince Edward County, Virginia, in late May. 

“Abandoning kittens in a trash compactor not only leaves them to die a painful death, but is also a criminal violation of Virgina’s cruelty code,” said ALDF Managing Attorney David B. Rosengard. “We are hopeful that members of the community are able to come forward with information that will lead to justice for these animals and prevent similar actions in the future.” 

“We are beyond grateful for the support of the Animal League Defense Fund for posting a reward for this heinous crime that occurred in our community. The County is committed to bringing this individual to justice,” said Prince Edward County’s Chief Animal Control Officer Adam Mumma, while asking the public to call with any information regarding this tragic incident.

If you find a stray animal, Virginia law states that within 48 hours, an attempt should be made to contact the owner (if they can be ascertained), and the local public animal shelter should be notified where the animal was found.

One kitten, who survived, was heard meowing by a local attendant who found her clinging to life in a plastic bag. It appeared that the kitten was put in the trash compactor on the morning of May 23rd, 2024. Along with the surviving kitten, there were two others that sadly died by the time they were found. The lone surviving kitten was bathed and brought to a local veterinarian for examination. The kitten, now named Zoey, has been adopted into a loving home and is doing very well.

In Virginia, abandoning or dumping any animal is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and/or a $2,500 fine. Additionally, willfully committing animal cruelty may be charged as a Class 6 felony if the animal dies or requires euthanasia due to abuse.

If you have information related to this incident, please contact Prince Edward County Animal Control at 434-223-7310. All tips will remain anonymous.