TOSHA Complaint Answered

County Deputies Trained in Capture, Transport, and Zoonotic Diseases

Jefferson County has met the deadline that was set by the Department of Labor and Workforce Development Division of Occupational Safety and Health for Tennessee (TOSHA), regarding a two part complaint filed with their office. The complaint alleged that employees of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department were required to capture and transport vicious animals without proper training and were required to transport and handle vicious animals without proper equipment. The complaint inquiry was received in Jefferson County Office of the Mayor on October 25, 2012 and required that the County investigate the complaints and answer the complaints by November 2, 2012. TOSHA informed the County that there were no penalties levied against the County regarding the issue, as an investigation is required to levy a penalty. The County was informed that the response to the complaint allegation did not remove the possibility of inspections from TOSHA. Jefferson County Office of the Mayor engaged the County Attorney to lead the inquiries in the investigation of the allegations. In the official response letter to TOSHA, David Longmire, Director of Facilities for Jefferson County, acknowledged the complaint and informed TOSHA that, per their instructions, a copy of the complaint had been posted for easy viewing of Jefferson County employees. Director Longmire included a copy of the response to Ronald Rich, Manager of the Public Sector Operations State of Tennessee, who was the original corresponder from TOSHA. The response was from Jefferson County Sheriff McCoig. The Sheriff stated in his response that the animal in question was not a vicious animal, but, rather, a pet. He asserted that occasionally deputies have to assist with animal complaints when local animal control officers are not available. The Sheriff stated that the animal was housed in a secured fenced in lot for one day, and was then relocated to the Humane Society via animal control. The shelter was closed when the animal was picked up. Shift supervisors are being equipped with a Snappy Snare, which is a devise used to capture and control animals. Every Officer is also equipped with a gun, taser and chemical spray. On October 31, 2012 training was given to Deputies on the road on how to capture and transport animals and Zoonotic diseases, as well as best approach practices. All Deputies assigned to the road will be supplied with Ketch-All Poles. Sheriff McCoig concluded his response by asserting that all Deputies are extensively trained.