Humane Society of North Texas Awards Johnson County Sheriff’s Department 2007 Judge Roy Kurban Humanitarian Award.

The Kurban award recognizes individuals or agencies who significantly improve the lives of animals in their community. Judge Kurban, who retired at the end of 2006 after several years on the Tarrant County Bench, is a strongly principled man whose passion for helping people and animals earned him respect and admiration. Compassionate and consistently fair, Judge Kurban’s work has set the standard for years to come.

The Johnson County Sheriff’s Department, under the guidance of Sheriff Bob Alford and with the dedication of Detective Steve S. Shaw, has substantiated their presence and visibility in Johnson County. The commitment from the men and women of the JCSD regarding the safety and welfare of animals in their jurisdiction has made the county a better place to live. Therefore a formal award presentation will be held tomorrow:

Friday, February 22^nd, 2008 at 11:30 a.m.

The Johnson County Sheriffs Office

1102 Kilpatrick

Cleburne, Texas

In 2007, 214 cases of animal cruelty and/or neglect, involving 1,088 animals were investigated by the JCSD. Of those cases, over 300 animals were either seized through legal means or released to the department by owners in lieu of prosecution.

In one case, the pet dog and rabbits belonging to the victims of a house explosion were cared for by HSNT after being alerted to the animal’s need by Detective Shaw. Treated for smoke inhalation and minor burns, the animals were reunited with the recovering family several weeks later. His compassion towards the severely injured family encompassed the plight of their pets, as well, encouraging other law enforcement officials to follow in his footsteps.

The Humane Society of North Texas is proud to honor the achievements and strength of character that comprise the Johnson County Sheriff’s Department.

To view a video of 2007’s equine rescues in Johnson County featuring the partnership between HSNT and JCSD, go to http://www.hsnt.org/press.php and scroll down.

The Humane Society of North Texas, a non-profit organization serving Tarrant and surrounding counties since 1905, is located at 1840 E. Lancaster, Fort Worth, TX. Our mission is to act as an advocate on behalf of the animals and ensure their legal and ethical protection; to provide for the well-being of animals who are injured, neglected, mistreated or otherwise in need; to relieve suffering and prevent cruelty to animals. In accordance to our mission, we promote kindness, justice and mercy to every living creature entering our door.

For more information please contact:

Tammy Roberts 817-891-6203

Sandy Grambort 817-808-2287

Tammy Hawley 817-891-6201