Employees 'worried for safety' after NRA chief Doug Hamlin’s sadistic cat killing comes to light

The United States-basedNational Rifle Association's (NRA) board is under growing pressure to suspend its chief executive, Doug Hamlin, following revelations about his involvement in the torture and killing of a cat during his college years.

Hamlin, who became the NRA’s CEO earlier this year, pleaded no contest to a misdemeanour charge of animal cruelty back in 1980. The incident involved the brutal killing of a fraternity cat, known as BK.

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According to resurfaced reports from that time, Hamlin and four others were accused of cutting off the cat’s paws, hanging it from a tree, and setting it on fire. These disturbing details were uncovered by The Guardian.

In response to these allegations, a group of 14NRA employees submitted a letter to the association'sboard of directors and called for Hamlin to be removed from his role while an investigation was carried out.

"Noting the recent story that broke about Doug Hamlin's involvement in the killing, torture, and cover-up of a harmless house cat makes all of us feel uncomfortable and worried for our safety," the employees wrote.

"Anyone who can do that and try to cover it up is a sadistic human and cannot be trusted with the organisation's reputation and employees' safety," they added.

The employees also warned, “If something is not done, Doug Hamlin will destroy any chances of a NRA comeback.”

Additionally, the letter outlined other concerns about Hamlin’s leadership. They described him as unqualified for the position, adding that he has little knowledge of the NRA’s operations beyond its publications and lacks interest in learning more. "We see it daily; you don't," the letter stated.

The employees also accused Hamlin of using personal connections and favours to fill key internal roles. The employees criticised his election through the popular vote and argued that a professional search firm should be used to find a more suitable leader for the NRA.

In response to the resurfaced reports, Hamlin issued a statement, saying, "I took responsibility for this regrettable incident as chapter president although I wasn’t directly involved. Since that time I served my country, raised a family, volunteered in my community, started a business, worked with Gold Star families, and raised millions of dollars for charity. I’ve endeavoured to live my life in a manner beyond reproach."

(With inputs from agencies)