“It has been my honor to serve the county, its citizens and the homeless animals here. I wish nothing but the best for (the) future,” Straley wrote in his resignation letter.
His resignation as dog warden comes weeks after he resigned his position as the executive director of the Humane Society of Clark County Aug. 20.
Clark County Commissioner John Detrick praised Straley for his work as dog warden and wished him well.
“Jim had worked hard for the county,” he said. “I had no calls in regards to problems when he was dog warden and I wish him the best in the future.”
Straley is a graduate of Shawnee High School and Wright State University’s performing arts program.
Humane Society board vice president Andy Heims was named the interim director.
Straley did not return calls seeking comment.
As dog warden, Straley likely saved the life a South Charleston town dog, Blackie. The dog — also known as Hobo — was caught by Straley Jan. 9, 2013, after roaming South Charleston’s streets for nearly six years. The dog had heartworm, a disease that is often fatal to dogs, especially if they don’t receive immediate treatment.
Straley had been the Humane Society’s executive director and dog warden since 2009. He was deputy director at the Humane Society for more than two years before being named interim director in January 2009.
Straley took over the reigns of the organization and as the county dog warden after the termination of former Executive Director Ed Sisler in March 2009. Shortly after Sisler was terminated from the Humane Society, he also resigned as Clark County dog warden amid allegations of theft, abuse of power and managerial misconduct.
County Administrator Nathan Kennedy said Straley did a good job for the county as the office transitioned from the scandal involving Sisler.
“I appreciated working with him. However, he has decided to move on,” Kennedy said.
Kennedy said the county is now looking for someone to fill the chief dog warden position.
About the Author