A public commenter raised serious concerns about staffing and safety at the Town of Hempstead animal shelter, accusing the acting director of hiring decisions that bypassed an RFP process and alleging rehiring of a person later arrested for animal torture.

The commenter recounted incidents including a dog named Lance that was allegedly kicked by a trainer and other recent injuries, and requested a formal investigation into trainer qualifications and the circumstances of those incidents. The commenter also alleged that part-time, highly accredited staff were discouraged from remaining at the shelter.

The board responded that in the 54 days since the current administration took office it has increased animal shelter staff, expanded days on which TNR (trap-neuter-return) is performed, and instituted a mobile TNR program to serve multiple communities. The board said it will continue to improve shelter conditions under its administration.

No formal investigation or disciplinary action was announced in the portions of the transcript captured here; the commenter said some residents may consider legal action.