People demand answers following Westport abuse case
Outrage and bewilderment from people attending a Board of Health meeting in Westport Monday as many demanded answers as to how the largest farm animal cruelty case in the Northeast could’ve ever gotten as bad as it did.
Chairman John Colletti and fellow member Karl Santos were grilled by those who stood up to ask questions.
Last week the the state removed them from their roles as animal inspectors in the wake of the massive animal abuse case where well over a thousand animals were found living in squalor.
"I apologize for this happening but I don’t feel responsible,” said Colletti.
Tensions did grow high at times as peoples anger clearly showed through as they took to the microphone to ask questions.
"I don’t even know where to begin. I left Rhode Island to get away from the corrupt government and look what’s here,” said Susan Rollins.
The animals were discovered last month. The last inspection prior to the discovery was back in January, though there is some question as to who actually went and what they saw.
There were multiple calls for the resignations of Colletti and Santos at the meeting.
We asked Santos if he has any regrets.
"I would say no I did what I thought at the time,” said Santos.
He says he has no plans to resign.
As for Colletti’s future with the board…. "I don’t want to leave the town empty handed. We have to wait until we can get somebody who can slide in and then I will be glad to retire."
Most who attended the meeting tell ABC 6 News that they were not satisfied with the responses they heard.
"They have yet to speak a word of truth. Nothing they said in there tonight was true. They have not taken any responsibility they show no remorse,” said Roxanne Houghton.
Earlier in the night the Board of Selectman also held a meeting. The chair announcing that they’re investigating this situation and have authorities the Town Administrator to look into town officials involvement in the case. The Board of Selectman is asking for the Board of Health to produce all documents related to the case.
(C) WLNE 2016
