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Case ID: 2366

Classification: Neglect / Abandonment

Animal: pig, chicken, reptile, rabbit (pet), goat

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Neglect of chickens, pygmy goats, rabbits
San Francisco, CA (US)

Incident Date: Tuesday, May 25, 2004
County: San Francisco

Disposition: Alleged
Case Images: 2 files available

Alleged: Berta Stephenson

San Mateo County officials cited a South San Francisco woman for animal cruelty Tuesday after humane society officers removed up to 100 chickens, six pygmy goats, some rabbits, a pot-bellied pig and a turtle from the woman's house.

The animals were apparently being used as sacrificial offerings by people practicing the Santeria religion, according to Scot Delucchi, a spokesman for the Peninsula Humane Society.

The animals were living in filthy, crowded conditions. Many are sick, and many will have to be euthanized.

Delucchi said Berta Stephenson, who lives at the house where the animals were found, had been cited for animal cruelty and faced up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $20,000.

References

• SFGate.com - May 26, 2004
• SFGate.Com - May 25, 2004

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