Target: Ernie Lee, Duplin County District Attorney, Duplin County, North Carolina
Goal: Ensure full accountability and ongoing oversight after a county animal shelter was cited for serious care violations and a deceased kitten was reportedly discovered.
State officials have confirmed that conditions at a county animal shelter have improved following a state investigation that resulted in a fine for violations of the North Carolina Animal Welfare Act. According to inspection reports, the shelter had previously been cited for improper euthanasia records, inadequate access to water and litter boxes, and animals not receiving proper care. During that earlier inspection, a deceased kitten was reportedly found inside the facility.
The shelter was fined and required to address multiple deficiencies. A follow-up inspection later found cleaner conditions, improved sanitation, consistent access to water, and updated medical and veterinary records. Supervisory staff implemented daily walk-throughs to monitor animal welfare, and infrastructure changes were observed to improve sanitation practices. While inspectors approved the annual inspection, they also noted that policies and procedures were still being updated.
When animals in public shelters are deprived of basic care and a death seemingly occurs under supervision, accountability must go beyond surface-level corrections. Sustained oversight and enforcement are necessary to ensure animals are protected long after inspections conclude. This petition calls for continued monitoring, full compliance with animal welfare laws, and consequences if standards are not maintained.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear DA Lee,
We are writing to express concern over reports that a county animal shelter was previously cited for serious animal welfare violations, including inadequate care and the discovery of a deceased kitten during a state inspection. While a follow-up review found improvements, the earlier findings raise troubling questions about oversight and accountability.
According to inspection records, animals lacked consistent access to water and proper care, and documentation related to euthanasia and medical treatment was deficient. Such conditions place vulnerable animals at risk and undermine public trust in facilities charged with their protection.
We respectfully urge your office to ensure that the shelter remains under appropriate scrutiny and that any future violations are met with decisive action. Continued enforcement is essential to guarantee that improvements are permanent and that animals housed at public facilities receive the humane care required by law.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Duygu
