In a shocking turn of events, authorities in Spencer County, Indiana, had to investigate allegations that shocked the community. The police were called to a place you typically think you will find rescuers, helpers. Not people abusing animals. Afterall, your county animal shelter should be a place that you can have trust in.
But not at the Spencer County Animal Shelter. The accusations levied against the shelter involved taking live kittens and freezing them as a method of euthanasia, which prompted an outcry from the community as well as demands that people be held accountable. All of this came to light when one brave woman, Bridget Woodson, came forward after having quit her job at the shelter.
Woodson went to the police, shedding light on the disturbing practices allegedly occurring within the shelter’s walls. Woodson recounted being asked to place still-alive kittens into plastic bags and then into freezers, under the direction of the Spencer County Animal Control Officer. She described the heart-wrenching decision she faced when confronted with such orders.
A cat waits in his crate. Photo from NY Post
Woodson said about a month after she began working, when she was told to put an injured cat in the freezer. When she balked at the order, she was given an option to take the poor cat to the vet, which she chose to do. The second time it happened, the kitten, while injured, was still mobile and moving about. Both times, this happened while the local veterinarian’s office was open.
“She told me to put it in the freezer,” Woodson said, referring to the animal control officer. “I told her it was still moving around, and she told me to still do it. I took it to the vet on my own and told them that if the money was the problem they could bill me.” Woodson shared a screenshot of a text message exchange that she said is between her and the animal control officer.
Hey. I took the cat to the vet and had it put down,” Woodson’s text message read. “You can take the cost out of my pay check if that’s a problem. I will not be putting live animals in the freezer if there’s another option available, please don’t ask me to do that again.”
The animal control officer responded, according to the screen shot with, “That’s fine but so you know, the freezer option is no less humane. It’s fine though Bridge. I’m here for my employees. Always.”
“I had to do something,” Woodson said. “I’m super concerned about the animals. If this is deemed as acceptable and no one is held accountable, what else will start to slip through the cracks.” “I loved my job there,” Woodson said. “I loved helping and working with the animals. I didn’t want to quit. But I knew what they were doing wasn’t right, and I needed to do something.”
The Spencer County Animal Shelter sits closed. Photo from the Courier Press.
At the time, State Police Sergeant Todd Ringle assured the public that more details would emerge as the investigation progressed. Woodson’s courage in coming forward has brought attention to the need for accountability and change within the shelter system. Her actions highlight the importance of standing up against cruelty and injustice, especially when it involves the most vulnerable among us.
Enough evidence was gathered that resulted in the shelter being shut down. Since then, a new, no-kill shelter has been opened in its place and has been working with the community to take care of the animals, ensuring the safety and well-being of those in their care.
The unfolding investigation sheds light on the urgent need for oversight and reform within animal shelters, ensuring the safety and well-being of all animals in their care. Thanks to Woodson, who had the courage to step forward and give voice to those who couldn’t speak for themselves, the animals in Spencer County are now much safer. Below you can watch the breaking news when the shelter became under investigation.
Sources: NY Post | Courier Press
