Bridging the Gap: Strengthening Partnerships Between Law Enforcement and Expert Witnesses

Speaker: DanaMarie Pannella, Holland & Muirden Attorneys at Law, and Ellen Bryant, DVM, Humane Society of Greater Dayton

August 4, 2026

12:00 - 1:30 p.m. on Zoom

Successful animal cruelty investigations depend on strong collaboration between law enforcement and expert witnesses. This seminar explores mutual expectations, effective communication, how each profession can educate the other, and practical strategies for building lasting professional relationships that strengthen investigations and prosecutions.

This 90-minute webinar is designed for humane society agents, municipal and township animal control officers, dog wardens, police officers, sheriffs, veterinarians, and other professionals who serve as or work with expert witnesses in animal cruelty cases.

DanaMarie Pannella, attorney with Holland & Muirden and appointed prosecutor for animal cruelty cases throughout Ohio, and Dr. Ellen Bryant, veterinarian and former Humane Society Agent, will discuss:

• Identifying the roles of law enforcement and expert witnesses.
• Understanding the expectations of expert witnesses.
• Improving communication between investigators and experts.
• Recognizing opportunities for mutual education and collaboration.
• Developing strategies for building strong professional relationships.
• Applying best practices for effective teamwork during investigations and prosecution.

REGISTRATION FEE

• $0 for Ohio Fed Webinar Bundle participants with code
• $25 per organization for Ohio Fed members with 1-5 program participants 

• $35 per organization for Ohio Fed members with 6-10 program participants 

• $45 per organization for Ohio Fed members with 11+ program participants 

• $50 per organization for non-members 

Ohio Animal Welfare Federation is an approved provider of content which enhances professional competence and aligns with the 5 domains of the CAWA Exam specifications. Every hour of training equals 1 CE towards CAWA Recertification.

This webinar has also been approved for Continuing Educational Units by the National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA). National certificate holders can submit for credit consistent with the NACA CEU policy located here.