Credit: Bucks County SPCA
To protect animals, the Bucks County SPCA has hired a new humane society police officer.
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Officer Lizz Knight was sworn in by Bucks County Court of Common Pleas Judge Robert Mellon at the Justice Center on Tuesday.
Knight successfully finished the demanding training for humane society police officers in October 2022. The training covered animal husbandry, law enforcement, and the laws governing animal cruelty.
“As a Humane Society Police Officer, Knight’s responsibilities will include investigating claims of animal neglect and cruelty, educating the public, helping to find solutions for animal-related issues, and prosecution of crimes,” the Bucks County SPCA said.
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Pennsylvania law grants humane society police officers their authority, which is more constrained than municipal officers and aimed toward the protection of animals. They can execute search warrants issued by the district attorney’s office and carry guns if authorized by the nonprofit they work for.
“We are very proud of our newest officer,” said BCSPCA Executive Director Linda Reider. “We know that she will continue our 111-year tradition of professionally responding to concerns about humane care of domestic animals county-wide. BCSPCA remains fully committed to supporting our officers on the road and in court seven days a week. Please, be the eyes and ears for animals in need of rescue or assistance!”
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Knight will join Bucks County SPCA Chief of Police Nikki Thompson.
Residents can report concerns of animal cruelty in Bucks County the local SPCA’s toll-free tip line at 844-SPCA-TIP (844-772-2847) or online at buckscountyspca.org/report-cruelty.
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