Remove Ned Shimp as Salem County ACO

Recent signers:
Kathryn Rabalais and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Ned Shimp has repeatedly let down our Salem County community in ways that are not only dissappointing but dangerous. He has been under investigation for a heartbreaking incident involving the death of a beloved pet. The loss of someone's cherished dog has left us all with a deep sense of grief and outrage.

This isn't an isolated event. Ned Shimp, in his capacity as the Animal Control Officer (ACO), has exhibited behavior and decision-making that many people find questionable at best, and harmful at worst. As the person in charge of the safety and wellbeing of our animals, and residents, in Salem County, it is crucial that he displays the utmost responsibility and care for the animals and the confidence of our community.

The recent tragic death underscores a deeper issue. Many have noted his blatant disregard for the standards and practices that are intended to protect animals, and residents of Salem County, under his supervision. There are numerous reports suggesting negligence and mishandling of numerous animal-related issues. These incidents have eroded public trust, which is essential for someone in his position.


Statistics from the National Animal Care and Control Association emphasize the role of ACOs in maintaining proper treatment and care of animals. It is imperative that Ned Shimp be held accountable and replaced with someone who embodies the principles of care, accountability, and community involvement.

Community members desire an ACO who values the life of every animal, actively engages with the public, and adheres to strict ethical guidelines. Removing Ned Shimp from his role and appointing a more responsible and compassionate individual will help restore trust and ensure the welfare of our animals. Ned Shimp needs to be held accountable in some way that is more than a slap on the wrist.  In a separate event, he left two stray dogs in the back of someone's vehicld and told that individual that there was no place to take the dogs so they were to figure out what to do - and if that individual was to dump the dogs, theyd be arrested - if he can do this, he deserves the punishment he would put onto others (even if he put individuals into that [dangerous] situation).  Side note - that individual drove those dogs to a vet that would take them.

Sign this petition to bring about a positive change for our community and for the animals that are unable to speak for themselves.

289

Recent signers:
Kathryn Rabalais and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Ned Shimp has repeatedly let down our Salem County community in ways that are not only dissappointing but dangerous. He has been under investigation for a heartbreaking incident involving the death of a beloved pet. The loss of someone's cherished dog has left us all with a deep sense of grief and outrage.

This isn't an isolated event. Ned Shimp, in his capacity as the Animal Control Officer (ACO), has exhibited behavior and decision-making that many people find questionable at best, and harmful at worst. As the person in charge of the safety and wellbeing of our animals, and residents, in Salem County, it is crucial that he displays the utmost responsibility and care for the animals and the confidence of our community.

The recent tragic death underscores a deeper issue. Many have noted his blatant disregard for the standards and practices that are intended to protect animals, and residents of Salem County, under his supervision. There are numerous reports suggesting negligence and mishandling of numerous animal-related issues. These incidents have eroded public trust, which is essential for someone in his position.


Statistics from the National Animal Care and Control Association emphasize the role of ACOs in maintaining proper treatment and care of animals. It is imperative that Ned Shimp be held accountable and replaced with someone who embodies the principles of care, accountability, and community involvement.

Community members desire an ACO who values the life of every animal, actively engages with the public, and adheres to strict ethical guidelines. Removing Ned Shimp from his role and appointing a more responsible and compassionate individual will help restore trust and ensure the welfare of our animals. Ned Shimp needs to be held accountable in some way that is more than a slap on the wrist.  In a separate event, he left two stray dogs in the back of someone's vehicld and told that individual that there was no place to take the dogs so they were to figure out what to do - and if that individual was to dump the dogs, theyd be arrested - if he can do this, he deserves the punishment he would put onto others (even if he put individuals into that [dangerous] situation).  Side note - that individual drove those dogs to a vet that would take them.

Sign this petition to bring about a positive change for our community and for the animals that are unable to speak for themselves.

Support now

289


The Decision Makers

Salem County Board of Chosen Freeholders
Salem County Board of Chosen Freeholders
Salem County Animal Control Department
Salem County Animal Control Department

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Petition created on June 7, 2025