Animal abuse and psychopathy

Evidence suggests that cruelty to animals may be an early sign of psychopathy or antisocial personality disorder. One of the stranger characteristics of psychopaths is their choice of pets. They are almost never cat people because unlike dogs, cats are willful and not easy to manipulate. When looking at the case of the accused "Cat Killer" of Saltillo, early warning signs of psychopathy are present.

ADAC has filed complaints against an individual accused of killing three kittens he received through adoption. Investigators completed an assessment and moved on to formal hearings. Evidence was brought forth by a friend of the accused documenting the abuse of a kitten.

Despite this evidence and many complaints, after two years of hearings, a judge decided that because this individual had no previous criminal record, he was not charged. This is disappointing for several reasons. Not only has this individual launched threats through social media to continue mistreating animals, he has allegedly begun harassing women. This is a typical progression of psychopathy as individuals make the jump from abusing animals to abusing people.

ADAC continues to appeal to the individual to stop hurting animals and to work within the legal system regarding penalties for those convicted of animal abuse. This, in conjunction with better support for those with mental health issues, would make this community, and our world, a much safer place. 

Alma Salinas speaks at a hearing for the alleged "Cat Killer"