Criminal Practice & Investigations

The ASPCA’s Criminal Practice & Investigations department provides investigative and legal assistance to law enforcement and prosecutors pursuing animal cruelty and animal fighting cases nationwide, with dedicated legal support for the New York City Police Department and District Attorney’s Offices handling these cases in New York City.

The department’s experts in animal cruelty and animal fighting include retired state and federal law enforcement officers, active and former local law enforcement professionals, and experienced attorneys, including former prosecutors and criminal defense counsel. This multidisciplinary team supports and consults at all stages of criminal investigations and prosecutions, from identifying potential cruelty situations and developing investigative strategies, to providing evidence collection and analysis, and serving as fact and expert witnesses at hearings and trials in state and federal courts. Our team also provides comprehensive legal support, including guidance on applicable animal-related laws and procedures, and assistance with hearings and trials, legal research, and drafting of legal documents.

The department also connects law enforcement and prosecutors to other ASPCA resources integral to the success of animal cruelty and animal fighting cases, including experts in veterinary forensics, crime scene processing and animal behavior. In addition to case work, the team regularly conducts training and workshops for animal control agencies, law enforcement, prosecutors, veterinarians, and other animal welfare professionals, and deploys throughout the United States to provide on-the-ground support for search and seizure warrant operations.