Humane Society hires private investigator

The Delta County Humane Society has employed Greg Turner since April 23 as chief investigator for their animal cruelty division and animal rescue. Turner is a private investigator located in Delta.

Jackie Schoonover of the Humane Society said those who want to report cases of animal cruelty should contact law enforcement first. Then if the situation persists, Turner will investigate and write a report. He can also explain laws pertaining to animal cruelty to the animal owners. The goal, Schoonover said, is to try and prevent criminal charges being filed by explaining how to take care of the animals.

Turner spoke at the Crawford work session on May 16. He distributed copies of his brochure for Leadville Tactical K9 and Investigation which works in Leadville, Delta, Montrose and Grand Junction.

Turner does a follow-up investigation after law enforcement has been notified of an alleged animal cruelty situation. He noted that Crawford has no police force of its own and it sometimes takes the sheriff a while to respond. People can call the Delta County Humane Society or the Leadville Tactical K9 and Investigation at (970) 773-4434 to check on complaints. "If [law enforcement] doesn't respond within 24 hours, then we do follow-up within six hours to 24 hours from that time," Turner said. "If you contact us direct, we will go out immediately and contact the sheriff's department or local police."

Turner said they can enforce town laws concerning noise complaints, and they can enforce county and state laws regarding animals. The investigators will sign complaints.

Those who can't take care of their pets can surrender them to the Delta County Humane Society. The animals will be checked out by a veterinarian and put up for adoption.

The sheriff's department has to be involved in a criminal case, Turner said, but his investigation firm can begin collecting evidence and information to "motivate the sheriff to move to the next step." Turner's humane investigators are certified. If the sheriff does not pursue the case, the Humane Society will then talk to the State Agriculture Department.

Cases involving dogs and cats are easier than livestock which are considered property by state law. For livestock, it may take up to eight months to get a warrant to go on property and collect evidence. Then that evidence has to be turned over to the district attorney.

These services with the Delta County Humane Society are free to the community.

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