Law enforcement and animal welfare agencies in Nassau County, New York, have established a coalition to coordinate animal cruelty crime prosecution.

Gary Rogers, president of the Nassau County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA), said personnel from that agency, the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office (NCDA), and the Nassau County Police Department (NCPD) already exchange animal cruelty case information. However, under their recently signed memorandum of agreement, the agencies will pool their resources to investigate and prosecute such crimes more efficiently.

Under the agreement, the NCPD will conduct background checks of NCSPCA peace officers who investigate animal cruelty cases and notify the agency where their services are needed. The NCPD will also assist the NCSPA with investigations, evidence gathering, and analysis. In turn, the NCSPCA will consult with police about potential criminal charges and train police personnel about safety issues and possible animal cruelty indicators. The NCDA will continue to prosecute cases proffered by police and NCSPCA personnel and seek restitution for the NCSPCA’s case-related out-of-pocket expenses.

“This agreement should stand as an example for other towns, cities, and counties to follow.” Rogers said