Eight Columbus Animal Care and Control Employees Arrested Amid Investigation

The Columbus Police Department has arrested eight employees of Columbus Animal Care and Control (CACC) following a three-month investigation requested by the Columbus City Council. Deputy Chief Lance Deaton shared the details of the investigation during a press conference on October 1, 2024.

The investigation reviewed over 30 complaints against CACC, uncovering multiple policy violations, as well as criminal infractions under Georgia State Codes related to animal care. Among the charges are animal cruelty, theft by deception, and forgery. The investigation aims to restore public trust and improve animal care standards in the city.

The employees facing a combined 34 criminal charges include:

1. Dr. Henry Hall | Veterinarian – False statements, 1st-degree forgery
2. Canita Hardnett-Johnson | Manager – Theft by deception, animal cruelty, euthanasia, violation of oath
3. Contreana Pearson | Admin Coordinator – Animal cruelty, euthanasia, violation of oath
4. Alexander Pimentel | Lieutenant – Euthanasia, false statements, violation of oath
5. Tennile Toliver | Corporal – False statements, violation of oath
6. James Elliot | Officer – False statements, violation of oath
7. Alizabeth Rodriguez | Officer/Kennel Staff – Forgery, unauthorized euthanasia, violation of oath
8. Phillip Copeland | Officer – Failure to scan for microchips

City officials are in negotiations with Paws Humane Society for an emergency purchase of CACC and its services. The investigation remains ongoing, with further updates expected.

Councilwoman Toyia Tucker emphasized the city’s commitment to transparency and accountability throughout the process.