By ANEEKA SIMONIS
GRAPHIC images of rowdy teenagers partying with a sheep stolen from a paddock in Hallam have sparked an animal cruelty investigation by RSPCA Victoria and Victoria Police.
It is one of several reported animal cruelty incidents from the City of Casey and Cardinia Shire region in recent weeks.
Images posted to social media show a group of young party-goers posing with a sheep under one boy’s arm during a house party held at a Hallam Road property on Friday 4 September. Another photo captures two boys holding the sheep in what is believed to be the paddock it was taken from.
One of the boys wrote on their Facebook page: “There is a paddock with like 20 in there across from my house … we jumped over and stole one.”
RSPCA Victoria’s senior inspector and prosecutions co-ordinator Daniel Bode said the matter was under investigation, warning of potential jail time for those involved.
“There is no excuse for this cruel act,” he said.
“No animal should be put through such a distressing ordeal.”
“Anyone found guilty of a criminal act such as this can face up to one year in jail, a fine of over $37,000 and a maximum banning order that stops people from owning or being in charge of animals for 10 years.”
A nearby resident who wished to remain anonymous described the incident as “disgraceful”.
“These kids are just out of control,” the resident said.
It was unclear whether the sheep survived the incident but posts made by the boys on social media indicated they planned to steal another animal for similar house parties in the future.
A police media spokesperson said a number of people captured in the images have been interviewed by police.
Police will continue to liaise with RSPCA as part of their investigation.
Nar Nar Goon wildlife carer Kat Ager has been left in disgust following several sightings of defenceless kangaroos left to die on the side of the road after being tortured and abused.
In recent weeks she reported finding two decapitated kangaroos in the region as well as a kangaroo with its testicles removed.
Another was found with its legs bound and skin grazed, indicated it was dragged behind a car.
“It’s traumatising to see this,” said Ms Ager, who currently cares for more than 30 ‘roos at the Little Urchin’s Wildlife Sanctuary.
RSPCA Victoria urges anyone with information about the Hallam incident or other animal cruelty incidents to lodge a report immediately on 9224 2222 or www.rspcavic.org
