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Livestock Education & Certification for Agriculture Law Enforcement

Animal Science

Caitlin Justesen
Livestock Extension Agent
University of Florida
Ocala

Abstract

An increasing trend of instances of livestock neglect and disputes was recognized between law enforcement agencies along with lack of knowledge by the responding officers to make determinations of animal well-being. This week-long program was developed in partnership between Florida Farm Bureau, The University of Florida, and local sheriff offices to address a need of in-field training on livestock health and management topics for law enforcement personnel. The objective for this program is to educate law enforcement personnel on generally accepted livestock production practices and teach skills to discern acceptable animal well-being. An emphasis is placed on providing ample opportunities for participants to apply acquired knowledge and skills in field settings and during mock litigation proceedings throughout this event. Throughout the course of the week participants are given homework and daily quizzes to assess short term knowledge gain. On the final day, participants must complete a two-part exam to receive certification, a hands-on evaluation of skills and a written exam. Since 2022, four classes have been administered to a total of 86 participants. There has been a 100% certification rate with overall knowledge gain of 40%, measured as the difference in initial and final written test scores. This training equips law enforcement officers with additional credibility in the court of law when they are forced to make decisions in livestock neglect cases. This program has become widely recognized among law enforcement agencies and the demand for the class is consistent. Having this Florida-based training program has saved over $17,000 in personnel training costs as opposed to sending these participants out of state. Some self-reported impacts of this program include improved state agency networking, enhanced abilities of personnel to care for and improve the condition of seized livestock in neglect cases, and continual use and referral to course materials while on the job. 

Authors: Caitlin Justesen, Carissa Wickens, Cynthia Sanders, Tim Wilson, Bridget Stice
  1. Caitlin Justesen Livestock Extension Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 34470
  2. Carissa Wickens State Equine Extension Specialist, University of Florida, Florida, 32611
  3. Cynthia Sanders Livestock Extension Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 32669
  4. Tim Wilson Livestock Extension Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 32092
  5. Bridget Stice Livestock Extension Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 33830