Cornwall, ON - Cornwall Police Service (CPS) initiated an investigation on Tuesday, April 14, following a complaint received regarding a video circulating on social media depicting animal cruelty. The CPS was subsequently in communication with Provincial Animal Welfare Services (PAWS).

The Ontario Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act mandates a government-run enforcement model to protect animals from abuse and neglect. It authorizes inspectors to enforce animal care standards, investigate complaints, and impose Canada's highest penalties for welfare violations.

As such, PAWS has taken carriage of the investigation and the CPS will be updated accordingly.

Members of the public are reminded not to take matters into their own hands and to allow the appropriate authorities to conduct a thorough investigation.

PAWS MANDATE

Enforcement & Accountability: Operates a 24/7 hotline (1-833-9-ANIMAL) and employs specialized inspectors to enforce provincial standards of care.

Stricter Penalties: Imposes severe penalties for animal cruelty, including substantial fines and imprisonment for up to two years.

PAWS ACT: https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/19p13

CPS MISSION: A trusted police service partnering with our community for a positive impact on safety and wellbeing in Cornwall.

-30-

MEDIA CONTACT:
Rodney Wilson (#545)
Cornwall Police Service
Wilson.r@cornwallpolice.com