Van Buren Township Trustee Al Ostrowski has won another certificate of recognition for “initiative, diligence and exemplary service” from the City of Dearborn Police Department.
Ostrowski is a part-time animal control officer for the City of Dearborn and was one of the officers that worked at what the media dubbed the “house of horrors” where hundreds of dead and live Chihuahuas were found and had to be removed. Ostrowski was shown on television news reports several times in a hazmat-type suit working at the site.
On May 14, Dearborn Police Chief Ronald Haddad signed Ostrowski’s certificate in recognition of his efforts.
The certificate reads: “On 07/22/09, Animal Control Officers along with the Police Department responded to 7840 Orchard on a report of neglected animals. Upon investigating further, it was determined that there were numerous dead and malnourished animals among the very poor living conditions.
“After days of hazardous rescue and recovery, it was determined there were 113 living and 151 dead dogs that had to be taken from the biohazard conditions. All of the officers involved went above and beyond the call of duty under hazardous conditions to rescue these animals. Due to the dedication of all the officers, numerous animals were rescued and were able to be saved.
“The Officer is a credit to the Department and is deserving of a Special Recognition award.”
Ostrowski said it took five, eight-hour days of work to get all the dogs out of the house, which was demolished April 15.
The owner of the dogs, Kenneth Lang, Jr., pleaded guilty to one count of animal cruelty to ten or more animals, which is a felony. He was given five years of probation in a mental health program.
Meanwhile he is to be under strict observation by the court system and cannot own animals for the rest of his life. The man reportedly lives in a group home in Oakland County.
Ostrowski also received a commendation from Chief Haddad for his work last year to help Dearborn police officers capture a fleeing robbery suspect.