Earlier today, a total of 20 animal cruelty charges were filed against the owners of Chilliwack Cattle Sales—the largest dairy factory farm in the country—and seven workers. These landmark charges stem from an investigation by Mercy For Animals in May 2014, documenting Chilliwack workers beating, kicking, and punching animals; using chains and tractors to hoist cows into the air; poking and squeezing festering wounds; and punching bulls in the testicles. Owners John Kooyman, Kenneth Kooyman, Wesley Kooyman, Jeffery Kooyman and Bradley Kooyman, and workers Travis Keefer, Jonathan Talbot, Jamie Visser, Chris Vandyke, Cody Larson, Brad Genereux, and Lloyd Blackwell have each been charged with violating sections 9.1(1) and 9.1(2) of the BC Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. If convicted, the owners and workers each face fines of up to $75,000, up to two years’ imprisonment, and up to a lifetime ban on owning animals.

Immediately following the investigation, Mercy For Animals reported the clear violations of British Columbia’s anti-cruelty laws to the BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which raided the facility and recommended that charges be filed. Mercy For Animals praises the BCSPCA for pursuing justice in this important matter.

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