Little Traverse Bay Humane Society and Emmet County Sheriff’s Office Offer $1,000 Reward in Animal Cruelty Investigation

Harbor Springs, Mich. – Little Traverse Bay Humane Society and the Emmet County Sheriff's Office are seeking information from the public following a potential animal cruelty case involving a stray cat found injured in Harbor Springs.

On May 14, a good Samaritan brought a young female gray domestic shorthair cat to the veterinary clinic at Little Traverse Bay Humane Society after finding her near the intersection of Quick and Hedrick Roads.

Upon examination, veterinary staff discovered severe injuries to the cat’s head. Additional diagnostic imaging revealed a bullet lodged in the cat’s skull.

In partnership with the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office, LTBHS is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual responsible.

“This is a deeply upsetting case of cruelty,” said Elise Ramsey, Executive Director of Little Traverse Bay Humane Society. “Our team sees firsthand the resilience animals can show, but no animal should endure this kind of suffering. We are hopeful someone in the community has information that can help bring accountability in this case.”

Sheriff Matt Leirstein emphasized the importance of community cooperation in the investigation.

“Animal cruelty is a serious offense, and our office is committed to thoroughly investigating this case,” said Leirstein. “We encourage anyone with information to contact law enforcement or LTBHS immediately.”

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Little Traverse Bay Humane Society at 231-347-2396 or the Emmet County Sheriff’s Office at the 911 non-emergency line.