Animal Cruelty Investigations     Printer Friendly   e-mail this page   Animal cruelty generally occurs as direct violence or neglect. All 50 states have animal cruelty laws, and 43 of those state laws contain provisions making certain types of cruelty a felony offense. Photo: HSUS/Guzy Unfortunately many cases go without convictions or receive a mild sentence each year. In order to strengthen animal cruelty convictions, Humane Society University provides this valuable training to law enforcement, criminal justice, and animal control officers. Our instructors are well-seasoned, highly experienced, and dedicated individuals who will provide a wealth of information to help you win the war against animal cruelty in your community.   Participants will learn the about specific state laws and connections with other crimes involved in animal cruelty as well as tips on conducting interrogations when animal cruelty is suspected, and how to build a strong case that will bring successful convictions.   COURSE TOPICS   Introduction to Cruelty and Your State Laws Definitions of Cruelty, Abuse, and Neglect State Specific Cruelty Law Review What you can and can’t convict on Precedent setting cases for your state First Strike: Animal Cruelty & Human Violence Connections Animal cruelty’s connection with other crimes and violence Working with other agencies Cross reporting laws Offering resources to victims Criminal Procedure Issues – How to present cases When and how to obtain a search warrant CSI -recognizing & logging evidence Necropsies: when to get one and what to discuss with the person performing the necropsy beforehand. Seizure, impound, bonding, owner liability, and disposition of seized animals Preparing the case for your prosecutor and testifying in court   Public/Media Relations Special Concerns (two of the below special focuses will be included in each training) Animal Fighting Cases Hoarding Cases Chaining Horse Neglect Puppy Mills Other Livestock Issues Who Should Attend? Law Enforcement Officers Prosecutors and Judges Animal Control Officers Humane Investigators Animal Shelter Veterinarians     Due to the confidential nature of the material presented in the class, enrollment is restricted to law enforcement officers; prosecutors and judges; and animal control officers, humane investigators, and veterinarians if employed or contracted with a government agency (sheriff's, police, or health department, etc.).                                                                     Photo: HSUS/Guzy  Instructors Each training may be taught by one or more of the following instructors.  More information is available upon request. Chris Schindler, Deputy Manager Animal Fighting Law Enforcement The Humane Society of the United States Dale Bartlett, Manager, Animal Cruelty Issues The Humane Society of the United States Tuition Regular Registration - $50 - $75* *tuition may vary due to local sponsorship, class sizes, or location  View upcoming Animal Cruelty Investigation Workshops Don't see a training near you?  Check out our hosting opportunities.  Download the hosting information packet and training request form for this training. For more information about HSUS' fight against animal cruelty and fighting, visit the Animal Cruelty and Fighting Campaign page. Photo: HSUS/Guzy Receive news, training updates, and more.