Shame: 50 dogs and cats were allegedly tossed from a bridge

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, Oct. 15 (medianowonline)- The Puerto Rico Tourism
Company (PRTC) and the Government of Puerto Rico are appalled by the
unfortunate incident that occurred in the municipality of Barceloneta,
where approximately 50 dogs and cats were allegedly tossed from a bridge by
workers of a private company contracted by the municipality of Barceloneta
to remove pets from a residential housing project, and take them to a local
shelter.
PRTC and the Government of Puerto Rico condemns these criminal acts,
and classifies them as cruel, inhumane and shameless actions committed by
indecent people. This truly unfortunate incident is an isolated one and
this is the first time that the island has encountered such a situation.
The Government is taking all measures necessary to ensure that the people
responsible for these criminal acts are prosecuted under local and federal
law. These inhumane actions tarnish the image of Puerto Rico's rich culture
and by no means are representative of the strong values of the people of
Puerto Rico.
The Public Housing Administration (PHA) has activated their emergency
committee and is visiting residents involved in the raid to compile
evidence and testimonials for the investigation. The legal division is
evaluating what measures should be taken against the responsible entities
for their illegal actions. In addition, psychologists and social workers
have been hired to visit the affected families.
On Monday, October 15th, government officials are meeting to determine
how to enforce regulations set forth by Puerto Rico's State Animal Control
Association and effectively communicate proper animal control procedures.
Also discussed will be the civil repercussions and penalties that the
responsible entities will be held liable to, in addition to the measures
that need to be taken to ensure that those responsible are heavily
penalized for their actions. The private company, Animal Control Solutions
is being investigated as the lead suspect in the case.
The Puerto Rico Tourism Company is doing everything possible to obtain
reliable, up-to-the-minute information on this situation and will make
additional details available as they become known.(PRN)