PAWPRINTS

A forensics first, the “Animal CSI vehicle”  was created to significantly advance the prosecution of animal cruelty and help strengthen cases against offenders by incorporating the emerging field of veterinary forensics in crime scene investigations.

The mobile forensic vehicle will operate under the leadership of the nation’s premier forensiv veterinarian and “animal CSI,” the ASPCA’s Dr. Melinda Merck.    The vehicle will be able to travel to assist national and local law enforcement in their efforts to build cases against and prosecute animal cruelty offenders. The mobile unit is fully outfitted to allow Dr. Merck to examine and care for animals found at suspected crime scenes, and includes a surgical suite for animals in need of urgent care. 

“The ability to work on-site with the necessary equipment and tools, rather than transporting animals as well as other evidence, will reduce the stress placed on the animals that are the innocent “collateral victims” in such situations. It will also provide a proven chain of custody for law enforcement, thus ensuring the integrity of the evidence,” said Dr. Melinda Merck.