To the editor:

The "discovery" of massive numbers of dead and abused animals on the Medeiros property off American Legion Highway is a sickening tragedy. I place “discovery" in quotes because it is clear that numerous people knew what was going on out there and did nothing to stop it.

Richard Medeiros and the owners of the abused animals are ultimately responsible for this horror. Yet the Westport Board of Health also deserves scrutiny — especially since this is the second time on the same property this has occurred.

At a public meeting last week BOS Chairman John Colletti, board member Karl Santos, and Senior Health Agent James Walsh swore they had no idea of the ongoing torture and starvation of hundreds of animals, or of the biohazard-grade filth of the place. Even if you believe them, which I do not, their willful ignorance stands as Exhibit A for their outrageous incompetence.

But their negligence goes deeper than incompetence. It reeks of blatant disregard for the lawful responsibilities of the office they hold. Colletti has seen this all before, as he was on the BOH in 2010 when the police busted Medeiros the first time. Apparently that calamity didn't make much of an impression on him.

All of Westport should call for the resignation of Colletti and Santos, and for the immediate dismissal of Agent Walsh.

I spoke with a police officer several days ago who had seen it all firsthand. He was haunted by it. Yet he said that "education" about proper animal care may have kept such a thing from happening. He seemed to be trying to convince himself that brutality can be educated out of people. That people who chain, beat, and starve animals are not irredeemable. That others who turn a blind eye to the savaging of innocents, their cries, and rotting flesh might somehow be taught to care. To care enough to DO something.

I get it that a tenant might be afraid to report abuse for fear of getting in trouble with the land owner or being seen as a snitch. But that is no excuse. Those who knew and did nothing are, by their silence, absolutely culpable in this revolting situation.

There were little to no consequences for those involved in the 2010 Medeiros death camp. No one went to prison. No significant fines were paid. Some of the same people who received a hand slap six years ago for unimaginable animal cruelty are also principals in this hellish redux.

Will there be any consequences for anyone this time around? Or will Westport be known as the place to be if you want to get away with murder?

Constance Gee

Westport