CALLIE’S STORY IS FAR FROM OVER: What’s Happened Since the 9-0 Vote
Lititz, Pennsylvania – On June 11th, Callie the facility dog died after being left inside a vehicle for nearly eight hours on a 90-degree day. Lancaster County prosecutors later declined to file criminal charges, saying Pennsylvania law did not support prosecution under the circumstances.
When we reported that the Warwick School Board voted unanimously to move forward with formal dismissal proceedings against Bonfield Elementary Principal Dr. Amy Balsbaugh, we told you we’d continue following every development.
Here’s what has happened since.
Attorney Mark Buterbaugh of the nonprofit @reignforchange told the school board that accountability matters because tragedies like this will continue unless meaningful consequences exist.
“If you leave a child in the car, you’re going to be charged. You’re going to be held accountable. Why are dogs different? They’re still living beings, just like children who rely on their humans.”
Meanwhile, petition organizer Jerica Bennett, founder of Callie’s Code and the Callie’s Commonwealth Campaign says Callie’s case exposed what she believes is a gap in Pennsylvania law. She says the long-term goal is legislative reform so future working animals receive stronger legal protections.
Callie’s Code is advocating for:
• Mandatory “Look Before You Lock” vehicle checks.
• A two-step verification process for transporting facility animals.
• Written care protocols.
• Annual heat safety training.
• Immediate incident reporting.
• Regular compliance audits.
The Callie’s Commonwealth Campaign is also urging Pennsylvania elected officials and school districts to strengthen protections for working animals across the Commonwealth.
The Warwick School Board also announced it is working with an independent Pennsylvania-based organization experienced in service and facility dog programs to review the district’s current procedures. Board members are expected to review a draft standalone facility dog policy at their August 4 committee meeting, one day before the August 5 dismissal hearing.
To dismiss Dr. Balsbaugh, six of the board’s nine members must vote in favor of termination. If she is dismissed, the case could also be referred to Pennsylvania’s Professional Standards and Practices Commission for possible action against her educator certifications.
Callie’s story has become about more than one heartbreaking day. It’s now about accountability, reform, and whether meaningful changes can help protect the next working dog.
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Sources: Warwick School District; Lancaster County District Attorney’s Office; LancasterOnline; WGAL; WHP Local 21 News.
Disclaimer: Fair use. All individuals are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
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