Brooke County designates new humane officer

Brooke County commissioners appointed Sheriff’s Deputy Jaetin Popish as the county's humane officer for a one-year term, following a request from Sheriff Rich Beatty. Popish, who previously served as a county dog warden, will undergo training and shadowing to learn about legal procedures relevant to his new role. However, County Prosecuting Attorney Allison Cowden raised concerns about the implications of Popish fulfilling dual roles, particularly regarding oversight in animal neglect investigations. She pointed out that while he could investigate as a humane officer, he would need a search warrant in his capacity as a deputy sheriff. Commission President A.

J. Thomas emphasized the need for a model to manage someone acting in both capacities and proposed consulting with other counties for best practices. The commission also agreed to hire Nichole Busick Felouzis as a legal assistant and to improve training for dog wardens on report documentation. They recognized the resignation of a courthouse security guard due to health reasons and tabled discussions on employee pay raises pending a fiscal review. These actions highlight ongoing efforts to enhance animal welfare oversight and administrative efficiency in the county.