Humane Society taps new officer


Jenna Utter is the new humane officer for the Humane Society of Ventura County.

Utter was officially sworn in by Judge Henry Walsh on June 10 at the Ventura County Courthouse.

A ceremony was later held at the shelter in Ojai, where Utter’s badge was presented to her by Jeff Hoffman, director of investigations; Kendra King, senior humane officer; and Steven Utter, Jenna Utter’s father.

Other members of the Utter family, as well as Sheila Kane McCollum, vice president of the board, and the entire Humane Society staff were also present at the event.

During the ceremony, Hoffman spoke of Jeanna Utter’s perseverance and commitment to the welfare of animals in need.

Utter began her career with the HSVC as an adoption counselor in November 2019.

To become a humane officer, trainees must complete hours of training, including an 80-hour Animal Law Enforcement Training Academy and an additional 40 hours of advanced officer training. They must also pass extensive background checks performed by outside agencies.

Officers must also complete search and seizure training courses, and receive continuous education through livestock, circus and animal fighting courses.

Utter will continue training with King in the field, where she will be able to investigate cases of animal abuse and neglect.

In addition to enforcing California’s anti-animal cruelty and neglect laws, humane officers educate the community about responsible pet ownership and offer resources to pet owners in need.

“As humane officers, we have to be compassionate for not only the animal but for people as well,” said King.

King was recently promoted from humane officer to senior humane officer. She had set up a training program for the Emergency Response Team of volunteers to assist with disasters.

For more information on the Humane Society of Ventura County, go to hsvc.org.