PCF efforts aid Putnam, Owen Humane Society operations

Putnamville Correctional Facility (PCF) Superintendent Stanley Knight (left) presents a $500 check to Lynn Bohmer, president of the Humane Society of Putnam County, recently. PCF staffers Mike Rains and Dean Treash and (front, from left) offender greyhound handlers Brian McCubbins (left), of Greenwood, and Jackie Berry, of Clinton, and canine Quinn watch as Knight present the donation check.

PUTNAMVILLE -- Superintendent Stanley Knight and staff recently presented donations totaling $1,000 to the Putnam and Owen County Humane Society efforts.

On hand to receive the funds were directors Lynn Bohmer (Putnam County) and Candace Dean (Owen County) at the Putnamville Correctional Facility (PCF).

Hundreds of abused or unwanted animals are sent to local community shelters each year, Knight said, noting that the shelters are in need of financial support.

But thanks to animal lovers like PCF employee Terri Russ, of Gosport, two area shelters will be able to help meet the needs of our furry friends.

"I love animals," Russ told the staff, "and, I know that local shelters are in desperate need. I thought, wouldn't it be great to help them out."

And that's just what PCF Supt. Knight decided to do.

Bohmer and Dean expressed their delight to have the opportunity to visit the prison and to meet staff. The delight was truly evident as Bohmer's eyes lit up when she was introduced to "Quinn," the newest canine member of the Prison Greyhound Program.

Once introductions were made, Knight, Michael Rains, Dean Treash, Terri Russ, offender greyhound handlers Brian McCubbins from Greenwood, IN and Jackie Berry from Clinton, IN, and Quinn watched as Knight gave a $500 check to each director.

"Animals play a significant role in our lives, as companions, service and security providers in our homes and at our place of work," Knight noted. "But equally important, they affect positive change in behavior, as exhibited by offenders who reside in the unit that houses our facility greyhounds.

"We are excited to contribute to such well deserved organizations," Knight added.