One supervisor says it’s happening more than you might think.
Gregory Schall, 49, is charged with improper exhibition of dangerous weapons or firearms.
The arrest report says he was armed with a rifle when he confronted Animal Care and Control Officer Deborah Coutts who came to his house to look into a complaint of animal hoarding.
"I am innocent. I didn't threaten anyone. There was no rifle involved. I have no firearms in the house. I don't believe in guns," said Schall.
Authorities say Schall’s case highlights what they call a significant issue.
They say Animal Care and Control workers are threatened, sometimes in person, sometimes on the phone, about once a week.
A bit ironic to some that employees who are trying to make sure people and animals are safe, sometimes have to worry about their own safety as they go about their job.
“In general they’re gonna try to stay calm, they’re gonna try and talk to people. But if they get a sense that it’s a dangerous situation they’re expected to get into their vehicle and clear the scene and then come back with law enforcement and continue the investigation,” said Capt. David Walesky, Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control.
“Sometimes we’re welcome and people are glad to see us and other times people are not too happy that we pulled up in their driveway,” said Capt. Walesky.
He says people can become quite passionate about their pets.
“Animals bring out a higher sense of emotions. When you knock on peoples’ doors they don’t want you on their property usually,” he said.
Animal Care and Control officers don’t carry guns, most don’t even carry pepper spray and they don’t have arrest powers. Some say, even in light of what they face at times, arming them is not the answer.
If convicted, Schall could face up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
(12 News - Sept 30, 2015)
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