Selectboard moves to pursue legal steps after repeated livestock killings at 140 Casino Road

The Williamstown Selectboard on June 8 heard multiple neighbors and the town's animal control officer describe repeated incidents of loose dogs at 140 Casino Road that have culminated in the loss of poultry and safety concerns.

Animal Control Officer Samantha Puncher told the board she had reviewed security footage showing a dog entering a chicken coop and had previously issued a ticket for the same dog. "I recognized the dog from the footage because she had written a ticket for it running loose 4 days after the last Selectboard meeting regarding dogs running loose from the 140 Casino Rd property," Puncher said. Patricia Pierce and nearby residents presented bills and said cameras captured the dog killing 8 hens and 4 guinea hens, and that repeated episodes have left neighbors worried for people and other animals.

Town Attorney Sarah Buxton reviewed the town's animal policy and explained legal options available to the Selectboard, including assessing fines, impounding animals, requesting restitution for damages, and petitioning a court to authorize seizure or humane disposition when warranted and supported by due process. Buxton emphasized that a hearing and proper notice are prerequisites and that ordinances carry more enforcement weight than internal policy.

After discussion, the board directed Town Manager Ryan Lockwood and the animal control officer to work with legal counsel and a reputable humane organization to evaluate boarding and behavioral assessment options and to prepare a decision consistent with Selectboard deliberations. The matter was discussed further in executive session; the board authorized the manager to draft the decision with counsel and the animal control officer.