Syracuse Police are making animal abuse a priority. The department has designated an officer to exclusively handle cases in the city. They say they've been overwhelmed by the calls of abuse coming in. Our Iris St. Meran introduces us to this officer and tells us more about her new role.

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SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Calls about dogs and other animals that look like this: Emaciated and dehydrated have flooded the Syracuse Police Department. Now, these abuse cases will receive special attention from Officer Rebecca Thompson.

Thompson said, "I will be working with the SCPA. Paul Morgan and I have already met and we will be working closely with each other on these cases, making sure that if he's not handling it, I will. If I'm not handling it, he will."

Her willingness to take on additional duties comes from a passion she's had her whole career. Thompson said she's always investigated these types of cases and teaches animal cruelty in the police academy.

She says the SPCA is also overwhelmed by calls and after looking into this found sometimes these animals didn't always get the attention they needed.

"These cases are extremely difficult. The victims can't tell you who did this to them or what was done to them. It requires a lot of investigation, witness cooperation. The initial responding officers are not accustomed or used to following up with these cases."

This pit bull is finally getting the help that it needs. Thompson is looking forward to helping these animals who can't help themselves.