About Animal Cruelty Investigations

What is a Humane Officer?

Highly trained, sworn personnel, spcaLA Humane Officers may exercise the powers of a peace officer anywhere in the state of California, while investigating animal cruelty. Humane Officers are appointed by the State and undergo substantial training in animal care, state humane laws and continue education throughout their careers. spcaLA Humane Officers and support staff are dedicated to investigating cruelty cases and prosecuting individuals or organizations who neglect or abuse animals anywhere within the state of California; to providing medical attention and care to homeless and/or abused animals; and to rescuing animals in distress or precarious situations.

In addition, spcaLA Humane Officers provide disaster relief to animals and their owners through the Disaster Animal Response Team (DART); work to break the cycle of violence by participating in various Violence Prevention Humane Education programs; work with local and federal law enforcement as well as other public and private agencies to reduce illegal smuggling of under-aged animals, illegal bloodsports, and much more.

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