The shelter closed to the public on Monday, April 15 and Tuesday, April 16, as staff mourned the loss of their cherished colleague.
Otto Cruz, 47, of York, was more than an officer—he was a bridge-builder, an advocate, and a father. Originally from Bayamón, Puerto Rico, Cruz became a police officer at just 18 years old. He served for a decade before relocating to Pennsylvania, where he continued his mission to protect and serve—this time focusing on animals and vulnerable communities.
He joined the York County SPCA in 2019 as a Field Services Agent and became the county’s dedicated Humane Society Police Officer in 2020. Since then, he responded to animal cruelty cases, supported criminal investigations, and ensured countless animals found safety and care…