08/14/2022
I regret that I have to post this, but after the repeated unfounded social media attacks on our team, I feel compelled to address these ongoing allegations by providing facts for your consideration.
In Oct 2021, allegations of animal abuse were made against one of our team members. It appears that this accusation was initiated in retaliation by a woman who was identified by our team member as the possible driver in a hit and run incident in late Sep 2021.
Over the past 10 months, these repeated allegations of abuse were investigated by multiple animal control and law enforcement agencies on numerous occasions, and there were never any findings substantiating these claims. Additionally, the individuals responsible for these false reports were recently arrested and charged with harassment and are currently awaiting a court appearance. I have attached copies of the Berkeley County Sheriff Department Press Releases for reference.
Now this woman is posting a go fund me initiative claiming to be raising funds "for my (her) lawyer in regard to saving and helping these poor animals." Let me be clear. There are no abused, sick or malnourished animals, and there is no lawyer working to save them because they do not exist. I have reviewed the pictures and videos posted by this woman, and the "emaciated" bloodhound featured in them was never a part of our K9 Team, nor have I ever seen it.
Our K9 Team has been a respected part of the Eastern Panhandle for 30 years. During this time, we have been called out for hundreds of searches for both live and deceased victims. We have reunited families with their loved ones, and also provided closure to the families by locating their loved ones who passed but were missing. We never charge for our services as this is an all-volunteer organization, and most of our funding comes directly from our Team Members. Our members are also frequently involved in supporting the efforts of other volunteer and non-profit organizations throughout our community.
It is unacceptable that our Team has been maligned by this woman for no purpose other than what appears to be revenge. It is even worse that she has prayed on those who are honestly concerned about animal welfare with her false allegations.
Sincerely,
Col (USAF Ret) Kim Sencindiver, RN MA COHN CHS-V
President, EVAK K9 Search and Rescue Team
