Manville police announce investigation and procedural changes after dog died in city custody

The Manville Police Department told council on July 1 it has launched an internal investigation after a dog died while in city custody and is implementing procedural and organizational changes intended to improve animal care and documentation.

"As a result, an internal investigation has been launched to determine where our documentation process may have failed or was not properly followed," Police Chief said during the regular session. The chief told council that animal control will operate under direct police supervision and that shift supervisors and an administrative captain will now provide oversight. He said the city expedited purchase and implementation of animal‑management software originally scheduled for next fiscal year and expects the system to be operational by the end of the month to "improve documentation and tracking."

Chief listed partnerships with outside animal‑welfare organizations that help with housing, testing and vaccination prior to transfers: the Houston Humane Society, the SPCA of Brazoria County, 3 Little Pities Rescue and the Best Friends Network. He also said the department is exploring expanded advisory‑board responsibilities to provide formal recommendations on shelter operations.

During a sizable public‑comment block, several residents and advocates urged transparency and accountability. Cindy Cortinez (statement read by an associate) said her review of public records showed a 14‑hour gap between the animal being placed in the shelter and later discovery of the animal deceased; she asked the city to "implement true and real changes" and to hold staff accountable where procedures failed. Julie Bradley, a longtime local rescue volunteer, told council "in my opinion, animal cruelty happened" and urged 24/7 intake and better shelter standards.

Councilmembers responded by acknowledging the public's concern and promising a debrief when the investigation concludes. Councilwoman Sarmiento, who has worked with local rescue groups, said: "No one is trying to hide anything. No one is trying to plot things behind the scenes. If you have information and you can show it to us so that we can help do the right thing, then we ask you to do that." She praised animal‑control partnerships and asked staff to move quickly with corrective steps.

Chief also summarized recent rescues and positive outcomes, including cases where officers and animal control worked together to rescue animals from storm drains, freezing weather and abandoned situations; some animals were rehomed or transferred to partners. He described the new animal facility that will open as part of the police headquarters as a temporary housing and transfer facility, not an adoption center.

Ending: Council directed staff to complete the internal review, brief council when it is concluded, and continue with the expedited software implementation and operational updates. Residents asked for faster public posting of found animals and clearer chain‑of‑custody documentation.