ABBOTSFORD – An investigation of Cedar Valley Farms by the BC SPCA has resulted in charges being recommended against the farm and key individuals in relation to documented instances of animal abuse last year. “The recommended charges will be before Crown counsel for a decision as to whether or not they will approve charges against …
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Hog farm invaders convicted
Two leaders of a high-profile farm invasion in April 2019 have been convicted on charges of break-and-enter and mischief. Amy Soranno and Nick Schafer opted for trial by jury in the hope of better pleading their case and shining a light on farming practices in the province. But after a short trial, the jury ended …
Animal activists on trial
The trial of three activists charged in the invasion of Excelsior Hog Farm in April 2019 began in Abbotsford on June 27. Amy Soranno, Nick Schafer and Roy Sasano are charged with a total of 14 counts of break and enter and mischief. The initial stage of the trial is the Crown laying forth its …
BC SPCA seizes cattle
Beef cattle removed from a property near Shawnigan Lake on Vancouver Island last week by the BC SPCA rescued them from some of the worst conditions regional manager Kaley Pugh has ever seen. But an investigation is ongoing into the animal’s care and whether or not criminal charges against the owner are warranted. BC SPCA …
Quick action on allegations
BC’s dairy industry took quick and decisive action last week against Cedar Valley Farms, an organic dairy in Abbotsford, following allegations of animal abuse. BC Milk Marketing Board circulated a note to industry on October 27 saying that it had suspended the farm’s licence following the receipt of information from the BC SPCA “regarding violations …
Activists plead not guilty
The four activists charged on several counts of break-and-enter and mischief at Excelsior Hog Farm in Abbotsford last year plead not guilty this week, forcing the case to trial. Amy Soranno, Jeff Rigear, Roy Sasano, and Nick Schafer see the trial as an opportunity to shine a light on how farms treat animals, and the …