We have received many inquiries about a bulletin published by Jacqueline Meyer of the GBHS concerning the horse Eagle and his case. We can say only that we are very saddened that Ms. Meyer chose to issue such a statement without actually possessing the FACTS of the case or making any effort to obtain them. TEARS has never accused Eddie Cook of being the person who actually starved Eagle.

Our concerns about Cook originated with his boast to us about having instructed a man to shoot the horse because he was old and had been told he had arthritis. He further boasted that he had suggested that he would kill Eagle himself with some *'blue juice' that he had in his possession. Cook further admitted to knowing that possession of this 'blue juice' was illegal. Cook also admitted that he never verified the horse's condition before ordering him shot. Further, Cook testified to these facts under oath in a courtroom full of witnesses, even going so far as to state (on the stand) that he would have been happy if the horse had been shot. From this, of course, we were concerned for Cook's feelings for Eagle, as Judge Coleman might have been had he not slept or dozed through most of the testimony the day of Eagle's hearing.

Did we speak out about our horror when we became aware that Judge Coleman intended to return Eagle to Cook? You bet we did, as in our constitutional right. You know, like the right to own property and do with it what you please, even if that property is a living, feeling being. That Cook has changed his story now does not change the FACTS. If Ms. Meyer was present when Eagle was returned, she was hiding for I was there myself and her face was not to be seen. Her account of the exchange is nothing more than fantasy. TEARS stands by our actions in this case. We worked by the book and all appropriate authorities WERE notified, however, we doubt that Ms. Meyer bothered to check that out. We plan to continue to speak for those who cannot speak for themselves, even when those who claim this as their motto do not choose to do so.

Sincerely,

Terra Cotromano
TEARS Director/Founder


* the color of the fluid injected into an unwanted animal to terminate its life