Southeastern Idaho authorities are investigating after intruders released about 1,500 mink from a fourth-generation family farm early Saturday morning. The Franklin County farm’s security system detected the break-in around 2:30 a.m.
Many of the animals were killed by passing vehicles or suffered from dehydration and heat exhaustion. Nearly 100 community members helped recover an estimated 80% of the mink; neighbors and authorities also set up roadblocks to protect the animals.
"These animals depend on us for food, water, and care," said the farm owner. "What kind of person turns more than a thousand animals loose knowing they could be run over, starve, or die from dehydration? There is nothing humane about that. The people who did this are responsible for the suffering and deaths of these animals."
"Our family has been farming for four generations, and it is heartbreaking to see animals suffer and die because of these actions," said his wife. "But in the middle of such a difficult day, our community showed up for us. Nearly 100 people came together to help rescue these animals, and we are incredibly grateful for the kindness and support we've received."
The Franklin County Sheriff's Office is investigating the incident.
"Those responsible for this attack are terrorists, plain and simple," said the Executive Director of Fur Commission USA. "The federal Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act (AETA) treats qualifying attacks intended to damage or interfere with animal enterprises as federal terrorism offenses."
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