Unveiling Heroes in Forensic Veterinary Medicine: How Adam Stern and His Team are Transforming Animal Justice
In the quiet corridors of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, something extraordinary is happening. Dr. Adam Stern, a professor in the department of comparative diagnostic and population medicine, along with his dedicated team, is at the forefront of a revolutionary approach to veterinary science that is changing the way we fight for animal justice.
At the Veterinary Forensic Sciences Laboratory, the reality is often grim. The animals that arrive have usually met with untimely deaths or suffered severe mistreatment. It's Stern's job, along with his team, to piece together the stories of these silent victims, often in the thick of criminal investigations. Since 2018, the lab has diligently worked through hundreds of cases of animal abuse and neglect, delivering justice not just for domestic pets but for an array of creatures including wildlife and farm animals.
Thanks to a substantial $7 million donation from anonymous benefactors in 2023, Stern's program is set for its first significant expansion. This infusion of funds is set to enhance resources dramatically for animal forensic partners not just in Florida, but globally. "These gifts allow us to grow," Stern remarks, outlining plans to hire additional faculty and a new fellow to assist with the mounting caseload.
Each day, Stern, a board-certified veterinary pathologist, along with a forensic pathology fellow and two lab technicians, meticulously examines these animals. Their tools? Advanced diagnostic techniques including toxicology, imaging studies, DNA analysis, and, critically, crime scene response capabilities. The lab's demand has surged, with a reported 136% increase in casework from 2022 to 2023, mostly driven by the high-quality training sessions hosted by Stern and his team.
The expansion will not only increase the lab's capacity to handle more cases but will also enhance their outreach and training capabilities. New equipment funded by the donations will introduce artificial intelligence into lab processes, such as urine analysis, revolutionizing how quickly and efficiently cases are processed.
Moreover, the establishment of the Animal Advocacy Case Support Fund and the Animal Advocacy Extension and Outreach Fund will bridge the gap between the lab's work and government agencies. These funds are crucial, especially for smaller agencies with limited resources, ensuring they have access to top-notch investigative services and expert testimony.
The impact of Stern's work is profound, stretching beyond the confines of the laboratory. "The importance of medical evidence in an animal cruelty prosecution cannot be overstated because the animal victims cannot testify and explain the event or describe their pain and suffering," notes Jamie A. McManus, deputy chief assistant state attorney.
As the only academic institution in the country with a comprehensive veterinary forensic pathology program, the University of Florida is a pivotal resource for law enforcement agencies nationwide. The college's collaboration with the Maples Center for Forensic Medicine further enhances its capacity to tackle complex cases involving forensic entomology and DNA analyses.
With the continued support and expansion of the program, Stern is optimistic about the future. Plans are underway to host more workshops, webinars, and an annual conference on animal forensic sciences and advocacy. These educational initiatives aim to equip more professionals with the necessary tools to tackle animal abuse and neglect cases effectively.
Adam Stern's work is a testament to the power of science in the service of justice, not only for animals but for the broader community, underscoring the interconnectedness of animal and human welfare. As the program grows, it stands as a beacon of hope and a model for others to follow, demonstrating that with the right resources and dedication, it is possible to give a voice to those who cannot speak for themselves.
