FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 7, 2017
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – In Albuquerque’s upcoming Mayoral runoff election, the City has an opportunity to bring new strategies and renewed energy to address significant animal and community issues. Concerned by the link between animal abuse and violent crimes and by ongoing challenges and costs associated with companion animal overpopulation, Animal Protection Voters (APV)—the leading political voice for animals in New Mexico—urges voters to choose Tim Keller for Mayor of Albuquerque.
Animal abuse does not happen in isolation—it is linked to elder and child abuse, domestic violence, and property and violent crimes toward humans. Many Albuquerque residents remember vividly the story of a Great Dane named “Moose,” who was shot and killed in 2016 while her family’s home in Sandia Park was burglarized. That incident was one of 52 separate cases investigated by the Albuquerque Police Department and the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, leading to the Grand Jury indictment of 15 gang members on charges including racketeering, auto and residential burglary, gun thefts, and extreme cruelty to animals. Animal Protection of New Mexico’s Animal Cruelty Hotline offered a reward for a tip that led to the arrest and prosecution of one of those gang members.
During his tenure in the New Mexico Senate, Keller earned a 100% Lifetime Score in APV’s Scorecards, demonstrating his strong understanding of the link between protection of animals and the wellbeing of New Mexicans. As a state senator, Keller supported legislation to strengthen penalties for violating state animal cruelty laws; provide protective vests for police dogs; invest in care for abused and homeless dogs, cats, and horses; and promote humane management and coexistence with urban wildlife.
“Tim Keller is the best candidate to represent Albuquerque voters who care about not only the humane treatment of companion animals and urban wildlife, but also the safety and health of Albuquerque families and communities,” said Jessica Johnson, chief legislative officer for APV. “Keller has a proven track record of championing public policies that help animals, particularly where they intersect with important issues like crime, public health and safety, and transparent and accountable governance.”
Currently serving as State Auditor, Keller has closely monitored disturbing problems within the City of Albuquerque Animal Welfare Department—the city agency that houses lost and surrendered animals at two city facilities, which has faltered in recent years, ignoring serious public safety issues and failing to adequately address Albuquerque’s pet overpopulation.
As a result, Keller is prepared to confront these challenges head-on to bring lasting change to this important city service, and he has pledged to tackle much-needed reforms. His detailed proposed approach includes utilizing fairer hiring practices to bring in the best-qualified department leadership and staff, reforming financial practices and budget structures to improve cost accounting, requiring full animal information disclosure to adopters, expanding and improving low-cost spay/neuter and trap-neuter-return programs, and strengthening animal control officer training and operations.
“Keller brings an unrivaled perspective and exceptional commitment to improving the lives and welfare of animals, and the families who care about them, in Albuquerque,” said Johnson. “We implore voters not to sit out on the November 14th runoff election and to cast their votes for Tim Keller, the candidate who will ensure city policies reflect the community’s humane values.”
Animal Protection Voters issues endorsements based on candidates’ records and positions on animal protection issues revealed in questionnaire responses, and not based on party affiliation.
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Media Contact:
Jessica Johnson
Jessica@apvnm.org
505-220-6656
About Animal Protection Voters
Founded in 2002, Animal Protection Voters is the leading legislative and political advocacy organization for animal protection in New Mexico. Powered by grassroots supporters, its mission is to:
- Actively promote and support animal-friendly legislation at the state, federal, and local levels;
- Build an effective political voice for animal advocacy in New Mexico; and
- Hold New Mexico’s elected officials accountable on animal issues.
For more information about Animal Protection Voters’ accomplishments, current priority issues, and annual scorecards, please visit www.apvnm.org, and be sure to follow Animal Protection Voters on Facebook and Twitter.
