County Fires Animal Control Director, Finds Shelter Killed 83 Animals Too Soon

SAGINAW (AP) - Saginaw County commissioners have voted to fire an animal control director after a state review of the county's Animal Care Center found violations.

The board voted 9-0 on Wednesday to remove Kevin Wilken, who has spent the last six months on paid administrative leave, The Saginaw News reported.

Wilken requested that the meeting held behind closed doors. He declined to comment after the decision.

Following the state's review, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development said there were improper adoption practices, issues with an animal's cage that led to its death and 83 instances in which the shelter killed dogs or cats too soon.

The violations could result in fines of up to $16,550. State police also investigated, but said it appears there's no criminal neglect or abuse.

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