UTICA, N.Y. — Oneida County has created a new Animal Cruelty Coordinator position to strengthen animal welfare efforts and improve responses to animal cruelty cases.
County Executive Anthony Picente announced that Jamie Dreimiller has been hired for the role, effective immediately, according to a press release.
The new position was established after the Central New York SPCA told the County in May 2025 that it would stop providing cruelty investigation and response services due to staffing shortages. The County’s new contract began April 1, 2026.
Picente said, “This new position is an important step forward for Oneida County. Animal cruelty is a serious concern that impacts the well-being of our animals, our families and our entire community. I am pleased to name Jamie Dreimiller as our animal cruelty coordinator and am confident her expertise and collaborative spirit will create a comprehensive, proactive system.”
Dreimiller will work with the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, other law enforcement agencies, County departments and the public to enforce Article 26 of the New York State Agriculture and Markets Law. She will coordinate with local shelters, rescue organizations, veterinary clinics, foster homes, transporters and humane handlers.
Her responsibilities include coordinating assessments, removals, transport and placements. She will also create standard operating procedures for countywide responses, launch public education campaigns on cruelty prevention and responsible pet ownership, and provide 24/7 emergency support to law enforcement.
In 2023, Oneida County handled about 404 animal cruelty seizures involving both small and large animals that needed specialized care and placement.
Dreimiller has more than 10 years of experience in public education and animal welfare.
She has served as vice president of Rover’s Do Over, dog control officer for the Towns of Bridgewater and Sangerfield, and recycling educator for the Oneida-Herkimer Solid Waste Authority.