Animal officer allegedly drowned kittens

ADELANTO — The head of this city’s animal control office is a facing multiple animal cruelty counts after authorities say he drowned dozens of kittens last year.

Kevin Murphy, who has not been arrested, faces up to six years in prison if convicted. He is accused of drowning up to 50 kittens over a four-month period.

Kathy Williamson of the Victor Valley Animal Protective League takes in animals that Adelanto Animal Control workers bring her. She says the city pays her $23 to take in a live cat for up to 10 days. She says Adelanto pays $10 for her to take a dead cat.

City Manager Jim Hart says the city is reviewing proper procedure with current staff.

Murphy, 36, has been placed on administrative leave. He is scheduled to be arraigned May 19 at San Bernardino County Superior Court.

A city spokesman says another animal control officer, Patrick Cornell, has been placed on leave as a result of the investigation. No charges have been filed against Cornell.

Adelanto is a high-desert city with nearly 24,000 residents, about 70 miles northeast of Los Angeles.