Deaths of Peafowl in Rolling Hills Estates Confounds Investigators

The Los Angeles chapter of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is asking the public for help in solving the the deaths of some peafowl in Rolling Hills Estates.

Some of the birds have been hit by cars, but spcaLA believes some were intentionally killed.    

"Animal cruelty isn't limited by species of animal, neighborhood, or the socioeconomic status of the abuser," said spcaLA President Madeline Bernstein. "It doesn't matter if you think an animal is a pain or a pet, maliciously injuring or killing an animal is criminal"

Investigators for the animal welfare agency, county animal control officers and sheriff's deputies are looking at possible DNA and video evidence, and awaiting necropsies on the birds believed to have been killed on purpose, according to Ana Bustilloz of spcaLA.

A conviction for felony animal cruelty can include imprisonment and fines up to about $20,000, she said.

--City News Service