Ask The Mayor

Q. - Does Terrell have a city ordinance regarding leaving an animal unattended in a hot vehicle? I recently encountered this and was extremely disappointed at how this was handled by the police officer that answered the call 90 minutes later. If we do not, we are in desperate need of one.

 

Answer - According to Police Chief Lay, a case like you described would most likely be considered under the Texas Penal Code relating to cruelty to non-livestock animals. According to this code, "a person commits an offense if the person intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly fails unreasonably to provide necessary food, water, care, or shelter for an animal in the person's custody. If, under the circumstances such treatment is deemed "unreasonable," the law provides for a very serious punishment. A Class A misdemeanor carries up to a 1 year jail sentence and up to a $4,000 fine.

If you feel the situation was not handled properly, it would be helpful if you would contact the Terrell Police Department and ask to speak to a supervisor or with Chief Lay. The leadership of the City is committed to excellent service and job performance. As with any organization, we need feedback from our "customers".

 

Sincerely,

 

Hal Richards, Mayor