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Over the past decade, the National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA) has led the national conversation on addressing animal cruelty as a means of enhancing community safety and preventing future violence. Since its inception, NSA’s Animal Cruelty and Abuse Committee has closely examined the many ways animal-related issues impact a sheriff’s office – from public safety and officer wellness to community trust and criminal investigations.

The link between animal cruelty and broader patterns of violence is no longer speculative. In January 2023, a U.S. Secret Service study highlighted multiple instances of mass attacks in public spaces where perpetrators had also committed acts of animal cruelty. The alleged shooters in Uvalde, TX, and Buffalo, NY, both had documented histories of torturing animals. Similarly, the federal Joint Counterterrorism Assessment Team Task Force has identified animal-related crimes as “a possible warning behavior for terrorism and other premeditated violence against humans which needs reporting and further vetting.” These findings reinforce what many in law enforcement have long understood: violence does not occur in a vacuum. Recognizing and responding to these crimes is a critical strategy for violence prevention and community safety.

A panel of sheriffs from across the country will share how they are addressing animal crimes in their jurisdictions, including the challenges they face and the creative, cross-sector solutions they’ve implemented. From forging partnerships with local humane organizations and veterinarians to hosting specialized training for deputies, sheriffs’ offices are finding innovative ways to prioritize animal-related enforcement. This panel will spotlight actionable strategies that improve outcomes for both people and pets.

PRESENTERS: NSA Animal Cruelty Committee

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