We applaud the swift action and thorough investigation conducted by Trumbull County Animal Welfare League humane agents after allegations recently came to light that some caged animals were left unfed at the Trumbull County Dog Pound for days.

The dogs also received no water and no scheduled medication.

Such deprivation is unthinkable. What’s worse is that this is alleged to have occurred in a facility with the sole responsibility to care for the animals and keep them safe.

It’s very likely some of these helpless animals already have experienced inhumane conditions in their lives and were brought to the pound where they should have been able to depend on the caretakers to ensure their safety.

We now know that was not the case.

Since the incident was reported and investigated, Deputy Dog Warden Charles Parks, 48, of Sweetbriar Street, has been charged with two counts of depriving animals food and water, and two counts of animal cruelty. Each misdemeanor charge could carry up to 90 days in jail and a $750 fine.

Of course, he remains innocent until proven guilty.

Since the charges were filed, Parks was placed on unpaid leave by the Trumbull County commissioners. He had been employed at the county dog warden’s office since 2018.

We believe the commissioners’ decision is justified, pending the outcome of the criminal case and, of course, the fact that it protects the animals in the interim, if the criminal charges are proven to be true.

While these allegations are extremely disturbing, what’s even worse is that they are believed to have happened on multiple occasions. According to investigative reports, the incidents occurred when Parks was the sole employee on duty and tasked with providing this care. The probe determined that the dogs would have been without food, water, medication and any other care for at least 48 consecutive hours.

That alarming information should concern anyone who ever has adopted a dog or surrendered a pet to the county dog pound, or, frankly, everyone who lives in Trumbull County.

A bright spot in this case, however, is the swift action by AWL humane agents once the incident was discovered.

The complaint was filed properly by county Dog Warden Michelle Goss. Ohio Revised Code requires any person appointed to act as an animal control officer to report immediately any possible abuse of which they become aware.

Human agents spent hours reviewing pound surveillance footage, conducting interviews with staff and volunteers and also reviewing records.

We are pleased with the AWL’s quick and thorough action and with the resulting criminal charges.

We know we won’t be the only ones paying very close attention to this very troubling case as it works its way through our judicial system.

editorial@vindy.com