Animal Rights Groups Offer Rewards In Shelton Snake’s Death

Animal rights groups are offering rewards for information in the case of an apparent snake killing at Shelton’s Huntington Branch Library.

Peaches, a Creamsicle-colored corn snake and a fixture at the library for years, endured chemical burns and kidney damage for a week before dying from injuries after someone poured Goof Off cleaning solvent into her tank around March 18.

There have been no arrests in the case, so PETA announced in a press release Wednesday that it’s offering up to $2,500 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for Peaches’ death.

Also, Darien-based Friends of Animals announced a $200 reward in the case Monday, then upped it to $500 after one of its members offered to chip in, according to the group’s president, Priscilla Feral.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Shelton Police Det. Richard Bango at 203-924-1544.

“Animal abusers are cowards,” said PETA Director Martin Mersereau. “They take their issues out on the most defenseless beings available to them. Area residents have good reason to be concerned. According to law enforcement agencies and leading mental health professionals, perpetrators of violent acts against animals are often repeat offenders who pose a serious threat to all animals—including humans.”