We are pleased to announce the winners of the 2022 Bucky Award for excellence!
For the past 11 years, Pasado’s Safe Haven has presented this annual award to recognize outstanding achievement in the investigation and prosecution of crimes against animals. This special recognition is part of our ongoing effort to help train and support law enforcement and prosecutors in their work on behalf of animals.
11TH ANNUAL BUCKY AWARD WINNERS:
Detective Chris Liles and Prosecutor Tyler Bickerton, Mason County, WA
THE CASE: Numerous animals – including dogs, a cat, doves, turtles and a horse – were found suffering and extremely emaciated in a home in Mason County, WA. Detective Liles and his team responded immediately and took photos, interviewed the suspects, obtained a search warrant, seized the animals, and took children found at the home into protective custody. Because of the diligent work by Detective Liles and Prosecutor Tyler Bickerton, the offenders were sentenced to jail time, community service, and banned from owning or living with animals for the rest of their life. The animals rescued eventually recovered and found new homes. Read their rescue story here!
This year’s winners receive grants totaling $5,000 to further animal cruelty investigation and prosecution related training, equipment or tools. We would also like to acknowledge outstanding work by the following individuals:
- Second Place Winning Case: Officer Debra Perry and Prosecutor Terra Moulton – Pierce County, WA
- Exceptional Effort Award: Officer Nomi Stutzman – Douglas County, WA
Each year we investigate and support hundreds of cases of animal abuse – cases that otherwise may not have been pursued. And with your support, we are providing critical tools to law enforcement, veterinarians and animal humane officers. Together, we are improving the way the criminal justice system responds to crimes against animals. Thank you for supporting this critical work.
