Expert: Loren Stevens - 8/19/2007

Question
Is an Animal Cop an actual cop?

Answer
Hello Jamie,
You pose an interesting question.
One thing I should advise you on, that you'll discover to be helpful in your future interests.
**With about any inquiry, issue, debate, or conflict in thought, You ALWAYS need to do two things:
1-clarify definitions of relevant words/terms.
2-clarify relevant assumptions.

That said, a "Cop" is a bonafide officer of a legal jurisdiction, that enjoys "police" powers.
Not all "cops" have the same authority, jurisdiction etc.
Animal Safety Officers may very well have legal authority to address matters involving various aspects of animal behavior, treatment, ownership, licensing etc. You'll discover, that their authority is quite limited, with specificity. However, within their authority, they do have the power to seize property, animals, evidence etc. And, they do have the power to issue citations, and limited powers of arrest.
The Animal Control Officers are identified by many titles in different jurisdictions. Their authority generally comes from State Legislatures, county Commissions, or city councils.
On a national level, there will be overlapping agencies with jurisdiction, depending on the circumstances, and situation.
Also, some local jurisdictions factor an animal control officer into a larger organization, for a variety of reasons. This results in being a deputy, or officer, assigned to an agency subdivision to work animal control matters.
Hope this is helpful to you.
Regards,
loren