Prosecutor honored by Dakin for work on animal welfare

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP)– After creating a task force dedicated to animal health and safety, a local assistant district attorney has been recognized for her work.

Northwestern Assistant District Attorney Erin Aiello received the Frances M. Wells Award from the Dakin Humane Society for her “outstanding work on behalf of animals.” The award is given for notable contributions to the health and welfare of animals.

The Northwestern DA’s office serves 47 different communities in Hampshire and Franklin Counties, many of which don’t have full time animal control officers, meaning many of the animal welfare cases don’t get the attention they need. Aiello lead an effort in 2023 to create the “Animal Protection Task Force” to help strengthen the work of animal welfare professionals in the region in preventing, identifying, and prosecuting animal cruelty.

“Erin is a fierce advocate for the welfare of animals. She trains people nationally to use best practices in their efforts to ensure proper treatment of animals,” said Northwestern DA David Sullivan. “We are fortunate to have her in the office and in our community.”

In a letter announcing Aiello’s award, Kaitlyn Holloway, community engagement manager for Dakin Humane Society, wrote: “This award is a well-deserved acknowledgement of your outstanding work on behalf of animals and the people who care about them. We at Dakin are incredibly proud to have you as part of our community.”

In 2023 she was also recognized by the Animal Control Officers Association of Massachusetts for her animal safety advocacy.

Aiello has been a prosecutor in the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Unit at the Northwestern DA’s office for five years.

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