MANITOWOC, Wisc. (WFRV) Police are asking for the public's help in a horrific case of animal cruelty.

Around 7pm Sunday, a group of people fishing near the 10th Street Bridge in Manitowoc, noticed a cat floating in the water.  They quickly grabbed a net and pulled it out. It became apparent that this was an extreme case of animal abuse.

The feline was dead. The cat's head had been bound tightly with silver duct tape. It's front and back paws were also tied up.

Police do not know how long the cat was in the water or where in the river the cat had been dumped.

 A necropsy, completed yesterday, showed no internal or external signs of trauma. A local vet, who performed the procedure, believes the cat died before it was thrown into the water.

The cat is described as a larger, orange-colored domestic.

The Lakeshore Humane Society, working closely with law enforcement to find the person responsible, said in a statement...

"This act is not simply a prank or mischief. It is not a report of a failure to take care of an animal or a sign of neglect. It is a deliberate act of cruelty and the reflection of a criminal mind that lives among us. The person(s) responsible for this unspeakable act needs to be identified and made to face the laws of this state regarding animal cruelty."

Police are following up on leads that have been coming in. They are asking anyone with any information to please contact them immediately at 920-686-6500. You can also contact Manitowoc County Crime Stoppers at 920-683-4466 and remain anonymous.

A $200 reward is being offered in the case.