Allegations of harassment and mismanagement emerge at Auburn Valley Humane Society under current CEO

Allegations of harassment and mismanagement have surfaced against Phil Morgan, the CEO of Auburn Valley Humane Society (AVHS), as multiple current and former employees report a toxic work environment and declining animal care standards. Staff members, including veterinarians and animal care technicians, have described instances of inappropriate behavior and intimidation that have contributed to a recent mass resignation of experienced personnel. In November 2024, nine employees left simultaneously, prompting an investigation by the AVHS Board of Directors, which concluded that there was no evidence of illegal activity. Morgan has attributed the resignations to disagreements over policy changes, though he has not clarified which policies were contentious. Concerns regarding animal welfare have intensified, with reports suggesting inadequate veterinary oversight and troubling attitudes towards animal care.

Former employees have raised alarms about Morgan's management style, including a preference for euthanasia over using available resources for low-income pet owners. The situation has drawn significant local media attention, highlighting the potential impacts on animal welfare and the operational integrity of AVHS. As the community grapples with these issues, the future of AVHS remains uncertain, with calls for accountability and reform growing louder.