ALBUQUERQUE, FEB. 7: Person unknown set up a spring-loaded trap at a popular recreation area, near Rio Grande State Park and Paseo del Bosque Trail.

The result was a trapped cat, which, after an unknown period of time, was eventually rescued by Animal Protection. Unfortunately, due to the leg-hold trap's metal grip, two of the cat's toes were so severely crippled that the veterinary clinic caring for the cat had no choice but to amputate.

The placement of a spring-load trap outdoors is illegal in the city of Albuquerque. And sure, this happened in Albuquerque, some way from Santa Fe (a 45-minute joyride south, to be precise), but Animal Protection of New Mexico is branching out, inquiring residents of several counties to come forward with any related information about the offense.

A reward of $2,500 is being offered in exchange for de-masking this "person unknown." If you have any information on the matter, please call the Attorney General's Animal Cruelty Hotline at (877) 5HUMANE.