ASPCA, NYPD Unveil New Mobile Command Post for Animal Cruelty Investigation Squad
The police and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals unveiled a new $5,000 mobile command post Monday that will be used by the NYPD’s Animal Cruelty Investigation Squad to stop abuse and protect New York’s most vulnerable animals.
“Our partnership with the ASPCA is critical to our work to fight animal cruelty and combat abuse and neglect,” said Police Commissioner James O’Neill. “By working together with the ASPCA, we are a force multiplier in that effort, and we thank them for making this new mobile command post a reality.”
The size and utility of the new vehicle, made possible by a grant from the ASPCA, will enable the NYPD to act quickly and effectively in cases where large numbers of animals are facing the greatest risk. The van is equipped with computers, collapsible cages, chip readers, lights, leashes and other tools for safely restraining animals.
According to the ASPCA, the NYPD and ASPCA have been working side-by-side since January 2014, and have treated more than 3,000 animal victims citywide. The partnership began with a four-month pilot program in the Bronx at the end of 2013.