Investigation of cruelty complaints
Wis. Stat. § 173.10
in effectA person may apply for a search warrant under s. 968.12 if there is reason to believe that a violation of s. 944.18 or ch. 951 has taken place or is taking place. If the court is satisfied that probable cause exists, it shall issue a search warrant directing a law enforcement officer in the county to proceed immediately to the location of the alleged violation with a doctor of veterinary medicine, if the court determines that a veterinarian is necessary for purposes of the search, and directing the law enforcement officer to search the place designated in the warrant, retaining in his or her custody subject to the order of the court such property or things as are specified in the warrant, including any animal. If the person applying for the search warrant is a humane officer, the warrant shall direct that the humane officer accompany the law enforcement officer who is directed to perform the search. The warrant shall be executed and returned to the court which issued the warrant in accordance with ss. 968.15 and 968.17. This section does not affect other powers and duties of law enforcement officers.
Source: WI Statutes (Official Site)URL: https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/173.10Fetched: 10/7/2026