Auburn residents demand action against dangerous roaming dogs

Concerns over public safety due to aggressive dogs and allegations of police misconduct dominated the recent Auburn city council meeting, prompting urgent calls for action from residents.

Several community members voiced their fears regarding dangerous dogs roaming freely in neighborhoods. One resident recounted a tragic incident in Rochester where a three-month-old baby was killed by family dogs, highlighting a pattern of negligence among dog owners. Another speaker, Jennifer Lees, shared her personal loss after her cat was killed by roaming dogs, emphasizing the need for accountability from pet owners. She and others expressed frustration over the lack of effective response from local authorities despite numerous complaints.

Karen Grant Kelly, a former animal control officer, criticized the city’s handling of the situation, comparing it unfavorably to her experiences in Binghamton, where strict measures were implemented to control stray and dangerous dogs. She urged the council to establish a dedicated animal control officer and a shelter to manage the issue effectively.

In addition to the dog-related concerns, the meeting also addressed allegations of police brutality. Eli Hernandez, representing the Auburn Cayuga NAACP, condemned the Auburn Police Department's handling of a recent incident involving an officer assaulting a Black woman. He criticized the narrative released by the police, which he claimed misrepresented the events and sought to vilify the victim. Hernandez called for justice and accountability, framing the incident as part of a broader issue of racial injustice and police misconduct.

The city council acknowledged the seriousness of the dog situation, with assurances that investigations are underway. The animal control officer is reportedly preparing legal action against the owners of the aggressive dogs. However, residents remain anxious about the potential for further incidents if swift action is not taken. The meeting underscored a growing demand for both animal control and police accountability in the community.