NSU 'Cruelty Connection' talk connects animal abuse with criminal behavior

NATCHITOCHES – Seventy percent of individuals who abuse animals are likely to move toward violence towards people, said Dr. Herman Soong, assistant professor of adult psychiatry and forensic neuropsychiatry at Tulane University. Soong was a featured speaker at a Northwestern State University forum that tied the predictability of violent behavior to individuals who are abusive to animals. Recognizing animal abuse can stop perpetrators before they become violent towards people, he said. “Cruelty Connection: Animal Abuse and Human Violence” was presented Tuesday as part of Paws for a Cause Week, a partnership between Friends All United for Natchitoches Animals (FAUNA) and NSU’s Veterinary Technology program to commemorate Vet Tech Week. Paws for a Cause is designed to pro