Three charged for animal slaughter

The SPCA has made it abundantly clear it views any animal abuser as a criminal. Inspector, Elize van Rooyen said criminal charges have been laid against three young men who went on a ‘hunt’ last week, which led to a large porcupine being beaten to death with a spade.

One of the young men then posted photographs of his bloody trophy to a social networking site. From there, the matter was reported to the SPCA national council and the local branch, who has since launched an investigation and has opened a docket with Newcastle police.

“The charges depend on the magistrate, but they could face a jail sentence or a fine. They will have a criminal record.”

Ms van Rooyen said she had already visited one of the young men and had explained why she had intervened and what consequences could follow for him. Calling the animal killing inhumane, she added charges would definitely be laid.

“We will not leave this alone. They will know who the SPCA is,” promised Heather Gero.

She said the case was given more foundation considering photographs of the dead porcupine and a bloody spade had been published on Facebook. This case would serve as an example, she stated vehemently.

Attempts to contact the young man who displayed the gory photographs revealed he has since removed them from his ‘wall’, and his phone is either off or has been disconnected. It is believed parents of the three hope to resolve the matter out of court.