FOR RELEASE:

Comptroller DiNapoli to Audit Hempstead Animal Shelter

State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli announced today that his office will audit the financial operations of the Town of Hempstead’s Animal Shelter.

Fieldwork will begin in the next few weeks, said DiNapoli, who has received hundreds of complaints about the shelter’s financial management in recent months.

“Our goal is to ensure the integrity of financial accountability related to the Hempstead Animal Shelter,” DiNapoli said.  District Attorney Kathleen Rice, who is conducting her own investigation, requested the Comptroller’s audit.

“This audit is essential to ensure that taxpayer dollars are being properly spent on the care and well-being of the animals at the Hempstead town shelter,” Rice said. “I want to thank Comptroller DiNapoli for his commitment to protecting the taxpayers.”

DiNapoli’s office sent an audit engagement letter to Town Supervisor Kate Murray this week.