Murphy is also Proctorville police chief

The Lawrence County Humane Society has a new humane officer, as Bill Murphy was officially sworn into the position on Friday at the Ironton Fire Department.

“We’re very excited to have Bill be a part of the humane society as the humane officer,” Meghan Taylor, vice president of the Lawrence County Humane Society, said. “He’s taken care of many calls already with only a few days on the job.”

Murphy, who is also the police chief in Proctorville, said he is excited to be the county’s new humane agent after taking over for previous humane officer, Randy Thompson, who had to step down due to health reasons.

“The Lawrence County humane officer is a part-time position that serves all of Lawrence County. When complaints get called in, you have 12-24 hours to respond to the call,” he said. “It could be anything from dogs without proper food, water or shelter to livestock. We cover all animals for any kind of cruelty.”

He added that what happens after responding to a call depends on the situation, but the main thing is to educate people on the proper ways to take care of animals.

Lawrence County Probate/Juvenile Judge David Payne swore in Murphy, who was alongside his wife, Shanna, on Friday. Also in attendance was Lawrence County

Commissioner DeAnna Holliday, who said Murphy was a good selection for the county.

“Having a humane officer is a very important offering to our entire county, and the county commissioners see this as a vital position,” Holliday said. “I know this isn’t a position that someone takes for the money or anything like that. You have to have a heart and passion for it, and we’re thankful for people like you who are able to step up to the plate. We appreciate your offering to the county, and our furry friends do too.”

The Lawrence County Humane Society is always taking in interested new members, who can attend the meetings at 7 p.m. on the last Monday of each month at the Ironton City Center to learn more about the organization or to sign up. Dues to be a part of the Lawrence County Humane Society are $5 for the year.