Drug Crimes and Animal Cruelty 'Undeniably Connected'

Companion animals, especially dogs, are commonly exploited by marijuana growers and dealers, according to Dr. Kris Otteman, Director of Shelter Medicine of the Oregon Humane Society. She traces the abuse and neglect of animals used as guards and as intimidation in marijuana trafficking and recounts how complaints about animal cruelty have led to arrests for drug dealing and investigations into marijuana trafficking have led to felony charges of aggravated animal abuse.

 
The article states that "the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals found that people who abuse animals were three times more likely to have a record for drug or disorderly conduct offenses." Because of this correlation, law enforcement officers are encouraged to enlist the help of humane investigators in their investigations.

 
Cruelty to animals certainly punctures the peace-loving, laid back stereotype of drug users, doesn't it?