Concerns have emerged regarding the disposal of deceased animals along roadways in Harris County’s Precinct 4. Anonymous sources have reported that employees are allegedly placing dead animals in trash bags and discarding them in an open pit.
One whistleblower, an employee from a different county department, provided video evidence showing 55-gallon trash bags filled with dead animals stacked in a hole. This individual noted the presence of numerous buzzards in the vicinity, raising alarm about the situation.
The footage was reportedly taken on land owned by Precinct 4, situated near the intersection of Clay Road and Highway 6. The employee expressed concern, stating, “They are taking these bags, stuffing them into the ground. You essentially have this massive hole, massive graves of dogs or roadkill animals collected by the county.”
Residents living nearby have also voiced their apprehensions. One woman, who wished to remain anonymous, described a foul odor emanating from the area where the animals are disposed of. “They dump animals back there,” she remarked. “I live right here, and you can see from the balcony dumping animals over there. I can see all of that.”
In response to these allegations, the office of Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones issued a statement defending their practices. The statement explained, “Precinct 4 crews pick up deceased animals on county roads and county-maintained right-of-way to protect the safety and health of our residents. Those animals are humanely buried on county maintenance property consistent with public health best practices and in full compliance with Texas Health and Safety Code Section 361.117.”
Commissioner Briones emphasized that public safety and the well-being of residents are top priorities for the office, which includes ensuring that roadways remain clear of waste and debris. The office encourages anyone with concerns to reach out at the provided contact number.
