Sometimes a community's response to something awful ends up being kind of beautiful — and that's exactly what's happening in the wake of the Boone animal cruelty case that's had a lot of Austinites pretty fired up lately.
The former employer of the man now facing charges in connection with the Boone abuse case has stepped up and made a financial contribution to the animal rescue organization involved in the situation. It's the kind of move that says, 'We don't stand for this,' loud and clear — and honestly, the rescue could probably use every dollar right now.
For those not fully caught up: the case centers on serious allegations of animal abuse, and it's been making rounds in local circles for a few weeks. The accused's former workplace apparently wanted to make it known where they stand, so they put their money where their mouth is and donated directly to the rescue group working to help animals in need.
Look, Austin has always had a strong animal welfare culture — between the no-kill shelter movement and the number of people who treat their pets like family members (rightfully so), this city doesn't take kindly to cruelty. Seeing a local business respond this way feels very on-brand for the community.
No word yet on the exact donation amount, but the gesture itself is getting noticed. If you're feeling moved by the story and want to chip in yourself, it might be worth looking up local Austin animal rescues doing the hard work of taking in and rehabilitating animals who've had a rough go of it. Your coffee budget for one week could make a real difference.
The case against the charged individual is still working its way through the legal system, so more details are expected to come out as proceedings continue.