The City of Lawton has stepped in to address the dual concern of improper wildlife housing and property maintenance at the residence of local wildlife caretaker, Mr. Wallie Breaden. Affection for his dedication to animals notwithstanding, city officials, in collaboration with multiple agencies, enforced regulations leading to the removal of various animals from Mr. Breaden's property, citing violations of city ordinances, as reported by the City of Lawton.
In a collaborative effort designed to protecting both wildlife and community safety, the City of Lawton's Animal Welfare Division, along with other city services and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, have intervened to address the situation. According to a statement obtained by the City of Lawton, on Tuesday, "two owls, two raccoons, a Canadian goose, two domestic geese, and six roosters were removed from Mr. Breaden’s residence," highlighting it is in violation of city ordinances for residents to house wild animals, which includes roosters and geese.
Moreover, this is not the first time that the property has come under scrutiny by city officials. Previously issued two notices of junk and debris in 2024, the property has been an ongoing concern for its maintenance, or lack thereof. Citing Lawton City Code 15-2-204.B.4, the City of Lawton reminded that it retains the authority to conduct a no-notice abatement in scenarios where a nuisance condition reoccurs within a year of a prior enforcement action.
Despite the enforcement action which has led to the animals being taken into the city's care, Mr. Breaden has not been left without recourse to continue his passion for animal welfare. The City of Lawton recognized his commitment by offering him a volunteer position at Lawton Animal Welfare, an olive branch in an otherwise thorny situation. "This is a difficult situation, but our goal is not to stop people from helping animals - it is to ensure they receive proper care in safe and legal conditions," the City of Lawton clarified in a statement.
In its closing, the City extended thanks to the Lawton community for its compassion and understanding as they navigate the complex dynamics of wildlife rehabilitation and property management. As such situations unfold, the City of Lawton reiterated its dedication to finding balanced solutions that prioritize both compassionate and responsible care for wildlife and uphold community standards.
