MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The City of Memphis named a longtime community development administrator as the interim director of Memphis Animal Services, as they continue to investigate Director Ty Coleman.
Mary Claire Borys, the manager of strategic initiatives for Memphis' Division of Housing and Community Development, will lead the operations of the animal shelter, a city spokesperson said.
Borys previously worked in management for Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis.
MAS Director Ty Coleman was placed on leave on June 28 as the city started an investigation on MAS' practices, after a dog died in their play yard in triple-digit heat on June 24.
In a statement, MAS said preliminary information suggest the dog’s death was heat-related. They said an exact cause of death has not been determined.
MAS said it has adjusted the outdoor play areas to have more shade, and they are working with staff “to ensure the well-being of all animals" in their care.
Coleman began working as interim director on September 5, 2023, after previously serving as animal services manager for the City of Midland and animal services director for the City of Sherman.
