Brad S. DiCenzo of Haverhill is Merrimac’s new animal control officer.
Merrimac Police Chief Eric Shears this week introduced DiCenzo, a New Hampshire native who now lives in Haverhill. He has approximately 10 years of experience working as an animal control officer in Haverhill and North Andover, and has also worked in part-time positions as a dispatcher, reserve police officer and animal inspector.
“What makes me happy and keeps me working as an animal control officer is that every day is different, every interaction is different, and I hope that I get the chance to help someone or some animal every chance I get,” DiCenzo said. “I can be interacting with someone on their worst day possible, and five minutes later I’m helping a duckling out of sewer drain.
The new animal control officer will be at Old Home Day Saturday, Aug. 10, with a pair of visiting goats. DiCenzo also plans to hold educational events for residents once he is settled. He said the toughest part of the job is dealing with animal neglect and cruelty, which can be mentally and physically challenging.
He holds an associate degree in Criminal Justice from Hesser College and graduated from the Massachusetts Animal Control Association Academy. He also completed three levels at the National Animal Cruelty Investigation School.