THE person who shot Cleo the cat, leaving the animal needing an amputation, must be identified.

We say this not just because they have clearly committed a particularly revolting crime, but also because they present a grave danger to human beings.

This is not hyperbole but something grounded in a wealth of data.

The medical literature about people who commit the most horrific acts against others is thick with instances of animal cruelty.

Many of society’s most dangerous individuals begin their criminal careers by attacking animals, then progress to greater levels of depravity.

Somebody, somewhere, knows precisely who shattered the cat’s leg with a BB pellet and left her in terror and agony. That somebody, perhaps a loved one of the attacker, may think it is better to protect them than to alert the authorities.

If so, they are completely wrong. It is far better that the attacker is identified now and given such help, sanctions or both as are necessary to address their behaviour.

Failing that, people living in the neighbourhood should have no hesitation in coming forward – anonymously if they prefer – with information about any local known to have a BB weapon.

The very worst that will happen is that some innocent gun owners will be swiftly eliminated from police inquiries.

The very best that will happen is that a potential danger to everybody in the area will be identified, and the risk they pose reduced.