Forensic Science Gives Animals a Voice
Carla Christian
When a crime victim can’t speak for themselves, who can tell their story? Oregon Humane Society aimed to be that voice when they created the Animal Crimes Forensic Center last fall.
Only the second facility of its kind in the country, the center is staffed by veterinarians trained in forensic examination. Forensic veterinarians look beyond routine care — evaluating new arrivals for clues to their experience and evidence of a crime.
For example, an animal might appear malnourished for a variety of reasons. A forensic veterinarian can discover whether the actual cause of the condition is starvation or intentional neglect. They can also determine whether an injury was accidental or caused by assault and even find the vestiges of repeat injuries.
From the trajectory of a bullet to the cause of death in a fire, an animal’s body holds clues. Forensic evidence can be used to prove death by heat, starvation, injury or other causes.
OHS Humane Special Agents investigate felony and misdemeanor crimes against animals and support other law enforcement agencies statewide. Last year alone, OHS
officers received 3600 reports of possible animal abuse and investigated 560 cases, with nearly 40% of cases from Marion County.
“Oregon state law gives animals the “privilege” of being considered crime victims,” says Veronica Broadley, OHS Humane Law Enforcement Support Services Manager.
This means that anyone responsible can face criminal charges for abuse or neglect. Veterinary forensic evidence is admissible in the courts and builds a stronger case to prosecute suspects.
OHS, which has campuses in Salem and Portland, funds three staff veterinarians who are specialized in veterinary forensics in addition to handling full caseloads at the shelter and animal hospital.
“This work is especially critical,” explains Broadley. “It’s time-consuming to make an evaluation, write reports and testify in court, and community veterinarians rarely have the time to commit to a case.”
Before forensic veterinarians begin their work, OHS Humane Special Agents must identify animals at risk and intervene. Commissioned by the Oregon State Police, agents have the authority to enforce laws related to animal crimes.
Humane Law Enforcement fills the gap when local agencies lack the staff or expertise to respond to animal welfare cases. Their role differs from animal control services, which focuses on enforcing ordinances like barking, dog bites or licensing.
“The goal is to offer support so the animal can stay in their home,” says Broadley. “That’s a better outcome for everyone.”
I”It’s times when someone is causing intentional abuse that Humane Special Agents intervene, and forensic veterinarians get to work. Without evidence, many cases wouldn’t be prosecuted — without a veterinarian’s report, justice becomes almost impossible.
“All of this starts with someone who’s willing to speak up about something they see,” Broadley says. “It’s hard to do that, but we encourage people to give us a call to talk through their concerns. That’s how we can help animals.”
OHS’s work is funded by the support of generous donors. To learn more about this and many other programs supporting local animals and people, visit oregonhumane.org.