This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Australia, which closed in 2021.

PETA Offers $5000 Reward After Kangaroo Killed And Dressed Up In Melbourne

'Animal abusers are cowards'.
Supplied/Fairfax Media

Animal advocacy agency PETA is offering a $5000 reward for information after a kangaroo was shot dead, bizarrely dressed up, and left by a roadside in Melbourne's north.

The kangaroo was found by government workers in Mernda on May 17, draped in a shawl and wearing a hat, with a bottle of ouzo under its arm, and posed in a sitting position on a chair. Investigators claimed the animal had been shot at least three times before being dressed and posed.

PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) has posted a public reward of up to $5000 for information leading to the identification and conviction of those responsible.

"Because animals cannot report abuse and can do little to fight back, they're often used as 'practice' victims by those who tend towards violence," PETA said in a statement.

"Research in psychology and criminology shows that people who commit acts of cruelty to animals often go on to commit violent acts against their fellow humans. As long as the perpetrator of this crime is at large, other animals -- including humans -- might also be in danger."

The PETA released detailed how "the world's most notorious serial killers" including Jeffrey Dahmer, Dennis Rader, 'Boston Strangler' Albert DeSalvo and Ivan Milat had histories of cruelty to animals.

"Animal abusers are cowards", said PETA associate director of campaigns, Ashley Fruno.

"We're appealing to anyone with information about this cruel act to come forward so that the perpetrators can be put where they belong: in jail."

The Victorian Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning released pictures of the kangaroo on Tuesday, in an appeal for more information.

"It would have taken some time to stage the kangaroo in that position on the side of the road and we are certain that someone would have seen something, given the public area and traffic flow of this main road," said investigator Mike Sverns.

"This is appalling and immoral behaviour and we are urging anyone with information to come forward."

"We're seeing an ongoing trend where people are directing misconduct towards native animals, for some reason."

Anyone with information about the case should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Click below to follow HuffPost Australia Politics on Facebook!

ALSO ON HUFFPOST AUSTRALIA

Close
This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost Australia. Certain site features have been disabled. If you have questions or concerns, please check our FAQ or contact support@huffpost.com.