NORTHAMPTON — Northwestern Assistant District Attorney Erin Aiello was recently honored by Dakin Humane Society in recognition of her contributions to the health and welfare of animals.

Accompanied by Northwestern District Attorney David Sullivan, Aiello received the Frances M. Wells Award on Wednesday, Sept. 11, at a reception at Dakin Humane Society in Springfield.

“Erin is a fierce advocate for the welfare of animals. She trains people nationally to use best practices in their efforts to ensure proper treatment of animals,” Sullivan said in a statement. “We are fortunate to have her in the office and in our community.”

In 2023, Aiello led the charge to create an Animal Protection Task Force to strengthen and better coordinate the work of animal welfare professionals in Hampshire and Franklin counties by offering support and free training. “Erin’s leadership in establishing the task force was forward-thinking and inspired,” Sullivan added.

In her remarks at the reception, Aiello noted that the work to protect animals is a community endeavor that requires collaboration and cooperation.

“It really is all hands on deck,” she said. “The DA’s support has been instrumental in the creation of the task force.”

In a letter announcing Aiello’s award, Kaitlyn Holloway, community engagement manager for Dakin Humane Society, wrote, “This award is a well-deserved acknowledgement of your outstanding work on behalf of animals and the people who care about them. We at Dakin are incredibly proud to have you as part of our community.”

Aiello has been a prosecutor in the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Unit for five years. Previously, she worked in the Plymouth County and Bristol County District Attorney’s offices.

In 2023, she was honored for her work advocating for animal safety by the Animal Control Officers Association of Massachusetts.