El-Sayed’s Detroit animal-control record resurfaces amid Senate campaign

Abdul El-Sayed, the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate in Michigan, faces renewed scrutiny over his time as Detroit health director, when the city’s animal-care department was accused of mistreatment and labeled a "dog slaughterhouse" by a former employee. When he took over in late 2015, the shelter’s live-release rate was about 20-26 percent; by late 2016 it had risen to roughly 61-62 percent, a change his campaign cites as evidence of progress.

Records indicate that 4,680 dogs and cats were euthanized during the period, with 1,056 dogs and 29 cats put down in the first full year under his oversight. A whistleblower lawsuit filed by former officer Brittany Roberts alleged starvation, unsanitary conditions and retaliation, leading to a $63,000 settlement. While El-Sayed’s team points to higher adoption rates, pay raises for staff, a new facility and partnerships with rescue groups, his Republican opponent and critics argue the earlier euthanasia figures tarnish his record as he seeks Senate office.