Police serve search warrant at Columbus animal control as part of ‘ongoing investigation’

There was a police presence at Columbus Animal Care and Control Monday morning as investigators served a search warrant at the facility, according to the Columbus Police Department.

CPD confirmed to the Ledger-Enquirer that a search warrant was being executed as part of an “ongoing investigation.” Columbus City Council asked for CACC to be investigated during a July meeting when the public showed up to express outrage over the treatment of animals. Specifically, video shared to Facebook showed a dog being euthanized on the floor at the shelter, left alone, and then placed on a cart with other dead dogs.

Dr. Hank Hall, the veterinarian at CACC, answered questions from city council at that meeting and said mistakes were made in that dog’s euthanization. He admitted during the meeting that there “needs to be changes.” Hall resigned from the part-time role and will leave the position at the end of August. Columbus is seeking a full-time veterinarian to replace him.

Police showed up to the facility Monday morning. A handful of police vehicles were still on scene later Monday morning, and the facility was taped off.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

This story was originally published August 26, 2024 at 10:37 AM.