CPD conducts search warrant at Columbus Animal Care and Control

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — Monday morning around 8 a.m. a convoy of more than 10 undercover police cars closed off Columbus Animal Care and Control.

Columbus police have confirmed a search warrant is being conducted as part of an ongoing investigation. Councilwoman Toyia Tucker of District 4 spoke with WRBL about the efforts.

“This is all in consideration of what council started back in July with the approval of the investigation,” Tucker said. “We are here today really not even a month out from us actually approving an investigation and here it is, a search warrant. They’re on the scene and they’re doing their job, they’re basically listening to the voice of the concerns of those citizens who have been desperately crying out for help for our animal population.”

More than 20 members of law enforcement entered the city-run facility including those with the Columbus Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Agency.

Crime scene tape has closed the facility off to the public at this time. Police officers on the scene say animal control will be closed for the remainder of the day.

This comes as the Columbus City Council has called for an external investigation into the shelter following viral surveillance footage showing a dog being euthanized in the main kennel area. Hundreds of animal allies have shown up to meetings, with dozens speaking during public agendas. Tucker spoke on the importance of civic engagement.

“Your voice is oftentimes much louder than my voice. Yes, I’m the one councilor representing nearly 28,000 people in District 4, but your collective voice, meaning you’re saying in populations all over the Columbus community,” Tucker said. “So, you’re in different districts that mean that you have representation from all eight districts, and you have the ear of all ten councilors plus the mayor. It’s important, not only for this issue, but for any issue that citizens use their voice, their collective voice to really promote positive change.”

Previous Coverage

• CPD to investigate Columbus Animal Control following viral euthanasia video
• CPD releases update on Columbus Animal Care and Control investigation, asking those with information to come forward
• Public agenda centers concern over Columbus Animal Care & Control

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