March 18, 2022 (HILLIARD, OH) – Columbus Humane recently promoted Humane Agent Jessica Scott as the new Chief Humane Agent. Chief Scott’s promotion comes after the former Chief, Kerry Manion retired after 40 years of service. Chief Scott has been with Columbus Humane for more than five years and has been an incredible asset to the organization and the community. She is the first female and African American Chief Humane Agent of Columbus Humane and it’s an honor to commemorate her impactful work with this promotion.
She began her time at Columbus Humane helping match pets with families and was quickly promoted to animal cruelty investigation as the Dispatcher before being commissioned as a Humane Agent. With an education in criminal justice and a passion for animals, Chief Scott quickly found her calling helping advocate for vulnerable animals and families. She spent years training under and working with the former Chief Manion and is looking forward to leading her team to continue the legacy that he left.
As Chief Scott settles in, she wants the community to know that animal cruelty investigations in Franklin County has never been in a better place. “My team and I are out running calls 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We conduct every investigation as thoroughly and as efficiently as possible. The community’s concerns do not fall on deaf ears. This is not an easy job to do, but as long as animal cruelty exists, we will be there to stop it.”
With her years of experience, Chief Scott has seen her fair share of tough days. When asked what helps keep her motivated she said, “knowing that my team and I can help an animal out of a bad situation is really what motivates me. Even if it’s just providing an owner with flea medication or a better quality food for their dog, sometimes that little act can go a long way. Also, being able to help an animal find a better home is always so rewarding.”
Columbus Humane is thrilled to have Chief Scott lead the department. CEO, Rachel D.K. Finney says, “Chief Scott is ready for this challenging and rewarding role. She demonstrates great compassion for the animals and people of our community and has proven her skills in protecting the most vulnerable family members. We are honored and proud to have her in this critical leadership role.”
About Columbus Humane Animal Cruelty Investigations
Columbus Humane is a private nonprofit organization, as well as, a law enforcement agency investigating animal cruelty, abuse, neglect and organized animal fighting in Franklin County. The team makes more than 6,000 visits investigating complaints of cruelty annually, with a 93 percent conviction rate. Most complaints come from concerned neighbors and Good Samaritans. We admit an average of 1,100-1,500 animals annually through animal cruelty investigations.
