Shooting in Vermont was Preceded by Years of Animal Abuse

Pawlet, VT — While gun violence is a pervasive tragedy across the country, the small New England state of Vermont rarely experiences it. The state, known for its rural character and close-knit communities, was shocked when news broke of the triple homicide that took place in Pawlet on September 15.

“Moments like this are a heart-wrenching reminder that not even Vermont is safe from acts of wanton violence,” said Will Marlier, Vermont state director of Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy.

Authorities have since taken Brian Crossman Jr., 22, into custody, charging him with three counts of aggravated murder. Crossman is accused of killing his father, stepmother, and stepbrother in their Pawlet home. As details emerge, a clear and disturbing pattern is being revealed, one that highlights a long-standing history of mental health struggles intertwined with animal cruelty.

The Boston Globe reported that “Crossman Jr. had for years shown unsettling signs of mental instability, including torturing animals…,” and The Manchester Journal wrote that he had always shown “an interest in death” and had “tortured frogs and kittens in the past.” This is an important reminder that animal cruelty is a critical indicator of mental health concerns in an individual. Additionally, those who harm animals often go on to commit violence against other humans. Michigan State University published a report that showed “100% of sexual homicide offenders examined had a history of cruelty towards animals” and “70% of all animal abusers have committed at least one other criminal offense”.

“It is vital that even in the midst of tragedies like the one that has unfolded in Pawlet that we keep the connection between violence against animals and violence against humans in mind,” Marlier said. “A nuanced understanding of this connection will help to keep our pets, families, and communities safer. If you ever witness an individual exhibiting violence towards animals, make sure to report it to the proper authorities as soon as possible in an effort to prevent potential escalation.”

The link between mental illness and animal cruelty is a complex and multifaceted issue that has garnered significant attention from researchers, animal welfare advocates, and mental health professionals. Here are a few key aspects of this relationship:

1. Indicators of Psychological Distress
   Individuals who engage in animal cruelty often exhibit signs of psychological distress or mental illness.

2. Empathy Deficits
   Many individuals who commit acts of animal cruelty may display a lack of empathy or emotional connection to others, including animals.

4. Cycle of Violence
   The “cycle of violence” theory posits that individuals who experience or witness violence may be more likely to perpetrate violence themselves, including animal cruelty. This cycle can be exacerbated by mental illness, where individuals may internalize aggressive behaviors as a coping mechanism.

5. Criminological Studies
   Studies show that many individuals who commit animal cruelty also have a history of other violent behaviors.

6. Interventions
   Early intervention, such as counseling and educational programs about empathy toward animals, can help mitigate these behaviors.

“Acts of malicious animal cruelty are red flags for parents, teachers, law enforcement, and policy makers,” said Josh Marquis, a four-term county prosecutor and co-chair of the National Law Enforcement Council of Animal Wellness Action. “When we ignore them, we imperil the safety of our communities.”