NCJ Number
223786
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 35 Issue: 7 Dated: July 2008 Pages: 72,74-78,80
Date Published
July 2008
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article discusses the important role law enforcement and forensic evidence plays in bringing animal abusers to justice.
Abstract
To fully prosecute animal crimes requires evidence. This evidence may seem in short supply because the victims cannot speak for themselves. In courts today, jurors expect CSI-type evidence. Properly collecting and documenting evidence requires law enforcement expertise. Law enforcement officers need to learn about relevant evidence in animal cruelty cases and to solicit the assistance of a forensic vet to help interpret animal behavior on-scene. Animal cruelty investigation training is available through the Humane Society of the United States, the National Cruelty Investigations School, and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. In summation, law enforcement skill-sets help bring animal abuse perpetrators to justice.