Target: Judge Gary Cohen, Chilliwack Provincial Court
Goal: Praise jail sentences for men caught beating cows and dragging them from chains.
Three men recently convicted of animal abuse for their roles in abusing cows at a dairy farm have been sentenced to jail time. Two of the men, Chris Vandyke and Jamie Visser, were sentenced to 60 days in jail and are not allowed to care for animals for three years. The third man, Travis Keefer, received seven days in jail, and cannot care for animals for one year.
The men, all former employees of Chilliwack Cattle Sales, were caught on camera kicking, punching, and beating cows with rakes, canes, and other implements. In an undercover investigation by rights group Mercy for Animals, the men were also seen tying chains around the necks of sick and injured animals and using tractors to lift and drag them to their destinations. Some cows suffered from open wounds and oozing infections.
In total, 20 animal cruelty charges were laid against workers. Three more of the company’s employees and one of its owners are still awaiting trial for animal cruelty charges in relation to the same investigation.
Animal abuse in the farming industry is rampant. These harsh punishments will send a message to farm workers that the government takes animal abuse very seriously. Sign the petition below to applaud these sentences, which ensure that justice is served for the animals that were mistreated.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Judge Gary Cohen,
Three men were recently sentenced to jail for their roles in the abuse of animals at a dairy farm. The men were caught kicking, punching, and beating cows with rakes, canes, and other objects. They were also caught tying chains around cows’ necks and using tractors to drag them across the premises. Several of the farm’s cows were found to have been neglected, with open sores and oozing infections left unattended to.
With cruelty rampant in the farming industry, these sentences will send a strong message that animal abuse will not be tolerated. Not only will this sentence ensure that the beaten and tortured animals receive justice, but will help deter potential offenders in the future. We, the undersigned, applaud you for taking a stand against animal abuse.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: franzl34
THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!
Thank you! Mercy for Animals also deserves thanks for their courageous work in exposing these crimes.
That’s awesome! Thank you!!!
I just wish they couldn’t “care” for animals EVER AGAIN!
Seems to me one year is not really good enough for this.
The sentencing for crimes in Canada is very lax. The opposite of the U.S.
This is a wonderful accomplishment! I believe, however, the sentences for all responsible deserved a much harsher penalty. Whether that be more time served in prison or never be allowed to work or own any animal.
Lily Pearl
Wonderful news for these poor, innocent victims. I just wish these monsters were banned for life fro having anything to do with any animals.