In
Response to: “Unacceptable” and “We are
judged” Letters to the Editor.
Instead
of moving forward, Stevens County continues to deteriorate when it comes to
Animal
Welfare. In 2009, the Sheriff’s Department received
2 grants totaling over $1 million under the Recovery Act: Assistance to Combat
Crime and Drugs. Since statistics prove
that Crime and Drugs are directly related to animal cruelty, abuse, and neglect,
these grants should have been provided funding.
In 2010, Spokanimal terminated their agreement after Stevens County
refused to pay the bill for a high profile animal cruelty situation. Then in 2011, the Commissioners indefinitely
suspended the dog enforcement measures indefinitely.
More
disturbing are pronounced statements in the Spokesman Review made by elected
officials
who
are responsible for funding, decision making, and strategic direction of lives
in Stevens County. Dashiell said: “80% of
this County never calls the sheriff for animal control issue. They handle it
themselves. Dogs that need help usually find help. The others, often cause
problems for farmers and ranchers and those dogs are “terminated somehow.”
Lewis
County, WA, which has very similar demographics (population and square miles) as
Stevens County demonstrates how
local and county elected officials should respond to reports of animal neglect
and cruelty. In
late April, Lewis County authorities seized 38 dogs living in “deplorable”
conditions after obtaining a warrant when the owner became uncooperative. Sheriff
Steve Mansfield stated "this case
highlights the partnership my office has with the Health Department. Working together resulted in swift action
to ensure the animals were rescued and treated
appropriately.”
Sound
like the horror outside of Ford in February?
The pictures and documentation are grossly similar, only different
mentalities and outcomes. Lewis County enforced the law, while Stevens
County looked the other way, animals died and elderly ladies
suffered.
Maybe
it’s time for some new professional individuals who aren’t afraid to tackle the
tough issues, protect and serve, enforce the laws and the real “Code of the
West”… “Do What Has to Be Done; Be
Tough, But Fair; and Know Where to Draw the Line.” (not one interpreted by a Colorado
commissioner from a book written in the early-1900’s).
Judy Campbell
Spokane, WA
Scanned copy to follow when available.
