Humane Society Investigation Confirms Neglect, Leadership Failures

JEFFERSON COUNTY, WA — The independent investigation into the Humane Society of Jefferson County has concluded, validating whistleblower complaints of leadership failures, veterinary interference and unsafe conditions while stopping short of finding intentional animal abuse.

The board of directors announced that Executive Director Jen Dupree is no longer serving in her role, with Board President Tony Hillman stepping in as Interim Executive Director while a permanent replacement is sought. It is unknown whether Dupree was terminated or if she quit. The findings cap a turbulent period for the shelter that began when former staff and volunteers first came forward with allegations of animal neglect, a toxic work environment and mass resignations.

The investigation, conducted by Thompson, Guildner & Associates, Inc., P.S., included more than twenty interviews with current and former staff, board members and volunteers. It was launched following a January whistleblower complaint from Dr. Deanna Kraft. Key findings included a lack of leadership, training, and accountability, with the report describing a dysfunctional work environment and insufficient policies and procedures. 

The investigation also found that the shelter operated out of compliance with applicable veterinary practice regulations and that the veterinarian's professional judgment was, at times, overruled or unsupported. Controlled substance record-keeping violations were also confirmed, supporting Dr. Kraft’s original complaint.

The examined claims

Two public claims of animal neglect and abuse received particular attention. The first involved two kittens reportedly overlooked for nearly a week and left close to starvation. Investigators found the claim credible, but concluded the incident was not intentional; rather, it resulted from a lack of leadership and oversight.  

The second involved a dog named Greg, who was alleged to have been housed in an outdoor kennel containing maggots and mold. Investigators found no evidence to substantiate that specific claim. However, they determined that the dog had been moved to another kennel and that the original kennel had not been cleaned, leading to the presence of maggots and mold. The initial allegations claimed that the maggots were discovered shortly after Greg was taken outside the kennel, and that former staff took photos and videos. 

In both cases, the investigation found that appropriate action was taken shortly after the incidents were discovered.

Three additional claims were investigated. A claim regarding inappropriate remarks made by a manager to a former staff member was found credible. An allegation of misuse of shelter resources for personal use was partially substantiated: the shelter's surgical trailer had been used for outside veterinary services under an informal arrangement, with no written policies governing such use. Concerns about unsanitary conditions at the facility lacked evidence, as investigators found no ongoing sanitation issues.

‘Relieved and encouraged.’ 

Dr. Kraft, the shelter's veterinarian who has been a vocal critic of Dupree's leadership, said she and the former staff and volunteers who testified in the investigation are greatly relieved and encouraged by the board's actions. 

"There is still much work to be done," Kraft said in a statement she sent to the Beacon. "Hopefully, the process of installing a modern, progressive sheltering program at HSJC can pick back up where it had started prior to Ms. Dupree's arrival." 

Kraft added that she is eager to return to providing full-spectrum medical and surgical services to Jefferson County's homeless pets, but only if the board restores the conditions necessary for her to do so. 

For former Veterinary Assistant Jessica Conley, who initially spoke with the Beacon in January 2026, said she feels a lack of justice. “If the inappropriate remarks were credible, and I am the one who reported them with zero action taken, why was I not reached out to by the board post-investigation?” Conley reported her concerns about management to the HSJC board earlier this year, and was subsequently terminated from her position. 

“Why did I lose my job and my financial security for speaking up? When will I hear an apology for the treatment I endured while employed there? Probably never.” Conley said. 

The Beacon reached out to the Humane Society of Jefferson County for comment following the investigation's conclusion. The organization has not yet responded.

Board pledges reform

In its full statement, the board acknowledged the investigation's findings and outlined several corrective actions. The board has contracted with a human resources professional to assist with employment policies, staff development and a code of conduct. 

It also plans to assemble a panel of subject matter experts to work alongside veterinary staff and the board to establish clearly documented processes, procedures and comprehensive training programs. Improved policies related to oversight, including greater public accessibility and transparency, are also being developed.

"We take these issues seriously and are committed to taking the necessary steps to ensure they are fully addressed and do not happen again," the board said. "We are grateful for the continued support of our community and donors as we work to strengthen our operations and restore full confidence in the Humane Society." The shelter remains open, and its adoption, animal licensing, rehoming, and pet food pantry programs are fully operational. Community events will continue as scheduled.

With Dupree out and the interim director in place, the board now faces the challenge of rebuilding trust with staff, volunteers and donors. The search for a permanent executive director has not yet been publicly detailed.