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Investigating Animal Cruelty 7 animal herself from various angles (i.e., front, back and both sides). Certain details of the animal’s appearance may demonstrate neglect or abuse (e.g. visible ribs, overgrown nails or hooves, skin infections, sores, wounds, injuries, etc.). Include closeup photographs of any such detail. Use a pen or pencil to point to certain items that might not be obvious to a viewer at first glance. • Photograph all animals, including any that are deceased. • In cases involving multiple animals of similar appearance, identify each animal with a separate number on a sheet of paper or white board. Include the identifier in all photographs of that particular animal. • Videotape the animal if he/she has difficulty moving. • Photograph/videotape all stages of the investigation, including discoveries. • Photograph/videotape the condition of evidence before recovery. NOTE: Images of law enforcement officers and others helping at the scene will likely appear in photographs and video. In cases involving large numbers of animals, volunteers might be needed. Insist that all on-scene personnel maintain a professional image and demeanor at all times. Careless animal handling practices or off-hand remarks can cause irreparable harm to your case. Search warrant procedure A search warrant is necessary anytime you wish to enter private property to investigate an animal-related complaint. The United States Constitution specifically protects against entering a person’s property without probable cause: “ The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.” —U.S. Constitution, Amendment IV In most cases, if you intend to seize animals or you need to enter the property for the purpose How to use this field guide


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