I can't believe Aviagen hasn't fired these three men.
I live near the plant so I might visit it tomorrow... any suggestions?

Posted by: Brad | February 5, 2009 04:06 PM

So glad to see that this crime is being taken seriously.

Posted by: patti | February 5, 2009 04:10 PM

The Charleston Gazette is reporting that all three were fired in November.

Posted by: Brad | February 5, 2009 04:55 PM

Halle-freakin-lujah.

Posted by: Meech! | February 5, 2009 05:13 PM

As a child, I was always taught that any child who is deliberately cruel to animals, ANY animals, should be watched, because they are only practicing "depersonalizing" the object of the cruelty, convincing themselves that the object doesn't feel pain somehow. This allows them to perform cruel acts, and they only get more creative. They are practicing for the next step: cruelty to human beings. Frankly, I wouldn't want one of those creeps anywhere NEAR me, because that kind of conduct makes my skin crawl, and makes me feel like I need a shower, at the very least. At the worst, I Know I should RUN not walk as far away as I can get. Yes, they should be sent to prison, and experience only a taste of the cruelty that they inflicted.

Posted by: MARY JANE | February 5, 2009 05:14 PM

That's a great victory of Peta! Who knows if we can still believe on human being and its respect of nature? I hope so.

Posted by: Artur Estanqueiro | February 5, 2009 05:17 PM

What a wonderful victory!!! THANK YOU PETA for once again paving the way to a kinder and more compassionate world!

Posted by: Shelly | February 5, 2009 05:24 PM

Great news!! Good job to you all, especially the undercover investigator. I can't imagine how hard it is to do that job.

Posted by: Sandi Hinton | February 5, 2009 05:30 PM

Despite the fact that I eat meat in moderation. I am appalled at the treatment of these animals. The Bible clearly indicates that man is to behave responsibly toward the whole creation.

Posted by: mark | February 5, 2009 05:33 PM

Now we need to see them punished to the full extent of the law.

Posted by: NT | February 5, 2009 05:38 PM

Hi Brad,
Yes, tell them the public is talking. For every abuser they keep and every abuse they turn their head from, it will cause them to lose money and it come out or their pocket. Justice has proven their revenues and their net profits will go down because no one wants to buy turkey from a farm that employs men fitting the profile of abusers and murderers. People don't want that on their conscious and they don't want that on their dinner table. That's just plain bad business.

Posted by: Angela Valenti | February 5, 2009 05:39 PM

YOU GO PETA!!! This is absolutely fabulous news!!! I hope that you get the same results, and maybe even better with other investigations.
I am a vegan, and I send your footage to family and friends, trying to get them to go vegan too. Thank you for making your footage available to circulate. It is SO HARD to watch them, but I want to know for myself what is going on, besides sending them on to others.

THANK YOU PETA..........

Posted by: jennifer | February 5, 2009 05:40 PM

Congratulations PETA on another job well done! Rest assured Aviagen will be hearing from me as well. I hope more people speak up for the helpless animals abused everyday. Keep up the good work.

Posted by: Tamara | February 5, 2009 05:49 PM

Bravo!

Posted by: jane | February 5, 2009 05:55 PM

These men are sick...Animals are god creatures just like them.. maybe we should do what he did so some of his family members...

I hope they get what the deserve
being hung

Posted by: Suzanne | February 5, 2009 06:00 PM

It's about time people took the plight of factory-farmed birds seriously. KUDOS ONCE AGAIN, PETA!!! :o-)

Posted by: GOVEG4LIFE | February 5, 2009 06:04 PM

PETA might investigate some of the chicken farms in the south. the crimes against the birds are awful, but the crimes against the humans are awful too. ever heard of "chicken catchers?" they catch chickens to put them into the cages on the trucks. they have to bend over and catch three sets of feet in each hand, and are paid by the # they catch. they also have been classified "independent contractors," so the owners don't have to pay benefits or insurance. these men are unqualified for other work and because of the terrible bending their backs often are destroyed in just a few years. then they're on their own.

i don't know which is worse, the brutality to the birds, or the brutality to the men.

Posted by: elizabeth wortham | February 5, 2009 06:11 PM

I'm so glad to hear this great news and pray that the president finally does fire these employees and implement the improvements that need to be made.

Posted by: yolani | February 5, 2009 06:21 PM

Great Job PETA. I am so glad your investigation has resulted in charges. Let's hope there are some convictions as well. This will make people think twice about animal torture in the future!

Posted by: JamesM | February 5, 2009 06:23 PM

yeah same... those men should go to jail

Posted by: Charlie Travis | February 5, 2009 06:28 PM

Thank you PETA.

Posted by: Deborah | February 5, 2009 06:31 PM

This act of cruelity is appalling and should be considered a serious crime!!!
Aviagen must fire these men!!!

Posted by: Jackie | February 5, 2009 06:31 PM

It is hard enough to think about what happens to an animal (cows,birds,pigs) etc.. when they are killed in these factories for food, but for them to be tortured and beaten is really unbearable to think about!! What sick employees of these places can do such horrible acts of stomping, killing and throwing these innocent creatures to their death in that manor is beyond sick! I think there should be a nation wide law that should be passed that any and ALL employees at any factory should be mentally tested to work. there should be very strict guidelines and penalties for company employees mistreating these animals.
The ONLY way it will stop and be overseen is if there will be felony charges and VERY large fines hanging over these companies heads! and for them to hire people that will follow the no tolerance of abuse or torture to these animals.

Posted by: Rachel | February 5, 2009 06:32 PM

Im so pleased justice will finally be done, and hopefully one day soon these factories will be illegal altogether.

Posted by: Liz, England | February 5, 2009 06:33 PM

Considering the proven link between animal cruelty and other antisocial behaviour, I never understood why society did not take animal abuse more seriously. Even folks who are not "critter huggers" tend to disapprove of criminal violence amongst people. I have secretly wished whatever abuse was inflicted on the animals could be replicated back onto the abusers but that would be frowned upon, I suppose. Go PETA!

Posted by: JR Conklin | February 5, 2009 06:35 PM

This act of cruelity is appalling and needs to be taken as a serious crime!
The men involved should be terminated!

Posted by: Jackie | February 5, 2009 06:35 PM

Thank god someone has finally taken a stand against cruelty in the poultry industry. I hope this leads to a nation wide investigation into the immense cruelty experienced by animals helplessly captivated in factory farms across the nations. I just hope it doesn't end here.

Posted by: Palesa | February 5, 2009 06:39 PM

I'M SO GLAD THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE LIKE YOU THAT CAN FIGHT FOR OUR ANIMALS/PETS RIGHTS.THANK YOU FOR BEING THERE VOICE!

Posted by: KELLY | February 5, 2009 06:39 PM

PLEASE STOP eating poultry. Put these turkey farms and the demented people that work in them out of jobs and out of business! Don't just talk about it. DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT! Go Veg.!

Posted by: Susan | February 5, 2009 06:40 PM

I am so happy to see felony charges. After seeing "meet your meat" last August on the PETA site, I have been vegitarian ever since. I was so ignorant (and partly in denial)to the abuse these animals suffer. Not any more. I force myself to watch every PETA video to remind me why I don't eat turkey, or pork, or beef, or anything that has feelings.

Posted by: Jenny | February 5, 2009 06:41 PM

I will never eat Turkey again!
Those men should be castrated,
stomped on and hung up by their canoles. Maybe someone should take a broomstick to the guy that shoved it down the Turkeys throat and shove it 2 feet up his butt!

Posted by: Lynne P Cunningham | February 5, 2009 06:53 PM

It's about time these less than humans got their just desserts. We can't allow this kind of behavior to continue. Kudos to all involved.

Posted by: KIM GOLDEN | February 5, 2009 06:55 PM

Yay! Finally the authorities are taking this crime seriously.

Posted by: Ellie | February 5, 2009 06:55 PM

This is fantastic news but Aviagen need to keep their promise and fire all employees responsible for this cruelty.

Posted by: Faith | February 5, 2009 06:56 PM

Good. I hope they get the same treatment as those poor turkeys.

Posted by: Chris Shepard | February 5, 2009 06:56 PM

I can't believe they have not fired these people. Shame on them. I'll be sure to talk to my local Safeway and all the other supermarkets in my area.
Odessa Gunn

Posted by: odessa gunn | February 5, 2009 07:02 PM

This kind of treatment to any animal is disgusting. What kind of freaks of nature do they have working there? These people need to be arrested and put away for a long time and their employers should be as well. I hope they all end up in the same prison so that they can torture each other.

Posted by: Marie Dopico | February 5, 2009 07:03 PM

It is about time. EVIL.

Posted by: Chloe Butterworth | February 5, 2009 07:05 PM

It's about time these factories get slapped with felony charges. See how they like the brunt slap in the face. Kind compared to what they are so willingly dishing out to these poor animals.

Posted by: Erynne | February 5, 2009 07:11 PM

Since charges have been made why haven't changes within the company taken place? When are the company going to sack these people. It's a disgrace. I can't believe the cruetly.

Posted by: Valerie Holland | February 5, 2009 07:12 PM

Brad - try protesting it! Get a few friends together, make some posters, and cause aLOT of noise!

Posted by: jessica | February 5, 2009 07:14 PM

These criminals shoud be in jail where they belong to later burn in hell. Animals abusers do abuse children too as they abuse the one swho can not defend themselves. For the sake of our animals and children, these criminals should not be release back to society.
These are God's creatures they are mistreating. God will make them pay.

Posted by: Gina | February 5, 2009 07:24 PM

By ignoring this terrible behaviour, we are condoning it!!!!

Posted by: Suseanna Ryan | February 5, 2009 07:27 PM

Well done Peta!
All animal abusers need to know they cannot get away with it! Cowards! Does it make them feel big that they can hurt and kill helpless animals a fraction of their own size! Rot in hell every stinking one of you.
The sooner cruelty to animals is a long prison sentence the better! Why isn't it already??

Posted by: Lynne | February 5, 2009 07:31 PM

I will never eat turkey again! These cruel and sick sub human beings who did these acts to these defenseless birds should be severely punished and required to do therapy.

Posted by: Carey Spanbauer | February 5, 2009 07:52 PM

Its about time these people pay for their actions!!! I plan on personally contacting all of these turkey farms and distributors to let them know this cruelty will not be tolerated. The grocery chains must know as well!!
Thanks for the update and good work!!!

Posted by: Debbie Libby | February 5, 2009 07:55 PM

Finally! Way to go PETA!

Posted by: Tonya | February 5, 2009 07:56 PM

boycott!

Posted by: jenn | February 5, 2009 07:56 PM

Moments like this makes all the letter writing, calling, looking up websites for more people to write, talking telling ect oh so worth the effort.

Posted by: Russell | February 5, 2009 07:58 PM

BRAVO!!!PETA!!

Posted by: GEORGE | February 5, 2009 08:02 PM

Great job--that is just awesome--real progress in the field of animal rights.

Posted by: Sandra | February 5, 2009 08:10 PM

you need to come to PUerto Rico and check how they are treated here also

Posted by: Virginia | February 5, 2009 08:15 PM

I'm so glad this animal abuse is finally being taken seriously. At least by the law anyway. As for the company execs - they must know what goes on in their but keep their heads turned because it's probably hard to find people who want this horrible kind of job. With so many people going vegetarian for various reasons now...maybe they will have to step up and do something. I see their business going down the tubes : )

Posted by: Christen | February 5, 2009 08:18 PM

Dear (!!!??) Aviagen's factory farm people in West Virginia:

Thanks to the INTERNET, the WORLD knows about your workers stomping, kicking, throwing, and killing turkeys in unimaginably cruel ways.

You must be feeling very insecure to have to torture birds to make you feel "big". Know that the good or bad you do to either people or animals will come back to you. What goes around comes around. Your choice.

Posted by: Denise Parnell | February 5, 2009 08:21 PM

I've already told my friends and family to stop buying Butterball products - guess I'm going to have to add Aviagen to the list. Nice work, PETA.

Posted by: Steve | February 5, 2009 08:24 PM

terrible. gestapo and SS in concentration camp.... no more comments. thank you, PETA

Posted by: dan | February 5, 2009 08:25 PM

Give me 5 mins alone with these weak excuses for humans! any one can hurt an animal but how about trying it with someone who can fight back you big tough babies! I hope you rot in hell!

Posted by: Cindy | February 5, 2009 08:25 PM

Thats great that 19 charges have been laid but Aviagen has to put in that 7 improvements from peta. I hope these men go to jail.
We need to change our laws and protect farm animals from abuse. Men should go to jail.

Posted by: Alice Fraser | February 5, 2009 08:27 PM

Phenomenal work, PETA!! We are with you. Go, get them!!

Posted by: Rituparna | February 5, 2009 08:34 PM

My suggestion is that they ought to do the same thing to the people that are doing this & then put their butts in prison.

Posted by: Yvonne Cox | February 5, 2009 08:41 PM

Call them and tell them why you will not do business with them. And that you will tell everyone else to do the same, then tell them you have already wrote into the local newspaper

...These companies are under the philosophy that it is ok to abuse animals since they are already going to die, put here for us to use (religious reasons) or lower than us in intellect or whatever else ideology they have.

THE ONLY WAY TO GET THEIR ATTENTION IS TO COMMUNICATE TO THEM THAT THEIR BEHAVIOR IS GOING TO COST THEM SUBSTANTIAL SALES, BECAUSE YOU WILL INFORM THE PUBLIC. Then they "magically" start to listen!!!!!!!!!!

This is usually the only thing that works.

Posted by: mike | February 5, 2009 08:42 PM

It would be nice to see some of these human turkeys get the s--t kicked out of them. I personally would love to be the first in line. I will never buy another Butterball,Pilgrim's Pride or Tyson product again. I will also pass this on to anyone and everyone I know. It is about time executives in every company start paying the piper!!

Posted by: Merryl F. Goldman | February 5, 2009 08:42 PM

DKNY, now Butterball. Keep the pressure on folks. I just sent a letter to Butterball asking that they stop feeding people semen filled meat. I also asked them to read some stats on deviant behaviors involvong sexual assault. Abusers often start with helpless animals and work their way to people, all too often helpless children. That's who works on these farms. That's who raped the turkeys.Please be frank and blunt so they cannot possibly miss the point or even pretend to. Please innundate them with calls. Contact info at butterball.com .

Posted by: T.K. O'Shannahan-Hyland | February 5, 2009 08:45 PM

FINALLY!!!!
This is just one more victory to remind us of why we are doing what we are doing and this is one more time and case to remind us of how right we truly are in what we are doing!!!
CONGRATS to everyone who was part of this investigation

Posted by: Kaitlin | February 5, 2009 08:46 PM

Greed has no conscience.

Take a camera, or better yet, a video camera.

Posted by: Debbie | February 5, 2009 08:51 PM

If this is the first felony charges aganist cruelty of birds then why isn't kfc shut down already???

Posted by: Rachel | February 5, 2009 08:52 PM

I hope they all fry!!! No pun intended!

Posted by: Emily Bell | February 5, 2009 08:59 PM

I am amazed and teary-eyed at this revolutionary moment for felony charges against abusing factory birds!!!!!

THANK YOU PETA for your undercover work.

As you may have just noticed, PETA, undercover video investigations are incredibly effective, with more of these, more of these factory farms will be slapped in the face really hard!

PETA: invest in more undercover video investigations, make sure you get clear shots of faces, ya know.

Will be sending a thank-you letter to West Virginia State Police, they've stood up and are changing the course of animal rights for the better!

:)

A push to get this on national news would be stunning.

thanks PETA, pleasure to support you guys!

Much more work is needed.

Posted by: David | February 5, 2009 09:06 PM

Well done, Peta, you are doing a wonderful job!

Posted by: Isabel | February 5, 2009 09:09 PM

FINALLY !!!!
TY 2 THE JURY, THE AUTHORITIES & THE INVESTIGATOR WHO MADE THIS HAPPEN.
ALL YOU OTHER AGRIBUSINESSES, BRING IT ON.
WE R READY 4 CHANGE.
I'M GLAD THE POLICE R FINALLY TAKING IT THIS SERIOUSLY !!!!

Posted by: Lee | February 5, 2009 09:11 PM

Great job guys! Keep up the good fight.

Posted by: Art | February 5, 2009 09:15 PM

It's shameful that these men are still employed, ANYWHERE! They should be banned, as if imprisoned, for 6 months, at least, with only unemployment pay, AND be required to do some HUMANE work with animals, for the entire 6 months too, in order to get their unemployment, else really go to jail. These actions make us no better than a 3rd world country.

Posted by: pamela fregeau | February 5, 2009 09:21 PM

A true victory for birds in America. This is a step in the right direction, I was honestly appalled at the fact that birds had ZERO protection for as long as they did. But, as many already knew, they feel the same ammount of pain and fear as cows, dogs, pigs, etc. so it was only a matter of time until they got the protection they desperately needed.

Posted by: Heather | February 5, 2009 09:27 PM

How could you allow your employees to do this? Your Co. is the most disgusting place I have ever seen. This is the reason I am a vegetarian. SAME ON YOU and I hope you will get yours. You people call your self's human?

Posted by: Ann Jazwinski | February 5, 2009 09:28 PM

Pleae prosecute these perpertrators of horrow.

Posted by: Jacqueline Bartley | February 5, 2009 09:41 PM

the workers should endure the same treatment as the birds ,hit these heartless workers with 2by 4 to see how it feels...

Posted by: caroline | February 5, 2009 09:47 PM

I am so Happy and Excited that this is a felony charge! It is a breakthrough case, no fluff ball misdemeanor charge! Yipee! When something like this goes into a felony that means it sets precedents for others to follow their lead. I was wondering what I would do if I was Brad who lives close. It is sometimes hard to be brave if you are by yourself, but I might at some point, do a sign, I might go outside the plant premises and write, "Employees mistreat animals", on a sign. But that is if I am brave, maybe a pal might help. /but other than that, I am so GLAD that this is making some progress. Maybe just maybe the 3 bean heads that did not get fired, are at least treating these animals last moments with more dignity than before, out of fear for their jobs. THANK YOU PETA!!

Posted by: Nancy Dunlap | February 5, 2009 09:48 PM

It is payback time for all in-humane people and companies, thanks PETA!

Posted by: Alma L. Gonzalez | February 5, 2009 10:25 PM

If the American consumers insist on eating meat, they must also insist that all farm animals are raised, transported & slaughtererd humanely.

Anything short of these 3 requirements is absolutely unacceptable.

The welfare of animals should never be replaced by greed & profit.

Animals are sentient beings ... who feel as we humans do. They are NOT Units of Production.

Posted by: Steven Book-Lover | February 5, 2009 10:39 PM

to these companies turkeys may only be a drumstick to them, but they are living, breathing creatures. i don't care if they are headed for slaughter or not. these people have no right to treat them as if they are nothing.

Posted by: Helen Tanguis | February 5, 2009 10:43 PM

YAY!!!
This is a first step to
stoping animal cruelty!!
Awesome

Posted by: Teresa | February 5, 2009 10:48 PM

That is really exciting news that FELONY CHARGES FOR ANIMAL ABUSE will be laid against the abusers. Brilliant, brilliant job, Peta!
Aviagen, show some decency and follow through with your promises.

Posted by: lynda downie | February 5, 2009 11:04 PM

SO HAPPY that this issue is finally being taken seriously!!!

Posted by: Danielle | February 5, 2009 11:07 PM

I, too, am glad this crime is being taken seriously. It's about time!

Posted by: Carla | February 5, 2009 11:10 PM

Thank you PETA for doing the right thing - for all sentient beings! Animals have rights, just as people do ... and I'm so proud to be a supporter of the great work that you do!

Posted by: Iva | February 5, 2009 11:17 PM

Bravo!!!!!

Posted by: Gen | February 5, 2009 11:39 PM

It is a sign of the times that animal abuse is finally beginning to be taken seriously. Thanks to PETA's undercover investigations and the internet to spread the news, more people are learning about what goes on in these horrible places. I frankly don't know how anyone can work in a slaughterhouse, and I strongly believe that the people who do work in such places lose their souls or never had one in the first place, and I believe that a good percentage of them go home and beat their wives and kids. Thank you, PETA, and thank those investigators who live forever with the nightmares of what they have seen, but persevere to make things better for the animals.

Posted by: Arlene Steinberg | February 6, 2009 12:01 AM

What did Ghandi say: "You can learn much from a country by the way they treat their animals". And just as true of any person. I cannot believe something like this comes from a first world country. God will judge and this cruealty won't go unpunished.

Irene
South Africa

Posted by: Irene | February 6, 2009 12:05 AM

These people must pay for their cruel crimes

Good work, PETA!

Posted by: Curtis | February 6, 2009 12:06 AM

Where can I submit comments directly to this company?
Any protest or boycott lists going?
Thanks,
Camilla

Posted by: Camilla | February 6, 2009 12:34 AM

Those that do this to animals have serious mental problems. This is evident from watching the video. This plant should be closed, what was happening was well known by everyone there and ALL the individuals in this video should be incarcerated. The supervisor that states he allows it to take place, should be charged with a felony and do time. The one that acted as though he were raping a turkey should be put in a small cell with "Bubba" and left for several years. These employees are sick and need to be put away from society. Aviagen should be closed permanently and guarantees made that it can never go back into this type of business. Maybe they could go into waste management. They could start by taking out the trash that is employed there. Brad don't get in trouble but pointing out those that abused these animals in public might embarrass them. Need Help?

Posted by: James McWhorter | February 6, 2009 12:35 AM

I am physically sick after watching this video!!! I am also outraged! These workers should be in jail! These are brutal and cruel individuals! How do they behave in normal social situations? They should be evaluated immediately by mental health professionals! This cannot be allowed to continue! THROW THE BOOK AT THEM AND AVIAGEN!!!

Posted by: janis flynn-smith | February 6, 2009 01:23 AM

I'm totally horrified, I can't even comment, thanks to Peta and others who have so much courage, I admire and respect you

Posted by: dominique gillet | February 6, 2009 01:25 AM

It is clearly a case of Aviagen cooperation with a felony against animals. It is a pity because the image that they are exporting is terrible -it has arrived even to Spain-.

I hope PETA continues with its fight againts this torturers... how is possible that turkey torturers were still employed by Aviagen?????

Thanks to PETA for its fight, toward preventing the continued torture of birds in the company's sheds.

Posted by: Silvia García Sierra | February 6, 2009 02:09 AM

this is so great! this makes being a PETA member soooooooooo worth it! very fulfilling.

Posted by: aryana | February 6, 2009 02:10 AM

The only way to success is never look the other way. Thank you for denouncing and helping us to join our voice.

Posted by: cristina | February 6, 2009 02:34 AM

hey guys, these fellas need our help, lets do the same to the 'loosers' that are torturing these turkeys, go careful Brad if you do go there, but make your point
cheers Peta, thanks for keeping us all informed, michelle, uk

Posted by: michelle atkinson | February 6, 2009 02:53 AM

This is disgusting and evil. These men should not only be fired but also banned to do any work envolving living creatures, they are outlaws!

Posted by: Aurea | February 6, 2009 03:11 AM

I am so glad that the law is finally punishing those who hurt and torture innocent creatures. These individuals are obviously very disturbed and violent, and I see no difference in the vicious acts they have carried out against these birds and the same acts against humans.

Shame on Aviagen - they could have redeemed themselves by taking swift action and resolving to enforce strong measures to counteract such cruelty, instead they have shown no remorse and appear content to do nothing. What a vile company.

Posted by: Lauren | February 6, 2009 03:28 AM

i am sadly not surprised at the awful abuse of animals and birds. i could not watch all of the footage of the maltreatment of these poor turkeys. i have been vegetarian for 30 years.i hope that in the future compassion will 'rule' however i don't see that for anyone who is just going to greedily consume a creature that they are ever truely going to care about what has infact happened to it prior to 'arriving' on their plate.

Posted by: julie | February 6, 2009 04:04 AM

I have a suggestion Brad, if you are going to visit tomorrow, take a gun with you!.I am so tired of these morons that quite frankly don't deserve to be on this earth. I have real trouble coping with all the stories I am hearing about cruelty to animals. Maybe if the people dishing out the cruelty were treated in the same way,things MAY change. I have 4 dogs and they are my life,, I am in the UK and keept seeing an ad on the tv with these beautiful bears that are being tortured. They are broken,it breaks my heart.

Posted by: jenny | February 6, 2009 04:11 AM

What a victory! This will mean so much for factory farm animals everywhere! There are many battles to win before we even begin to win this war...but we will win this war!

Posted by: Connee | February 6, 2009 04:12 AM

Brad I think you should ask too speak with the manager of the hell hole and ask for an explanation, do not forget to turn your mobile on record thought will you.

Posted by: steff | February 6, 2009 05:10 AM

Thanks PETA for doing such a great job protecting animals! I am so glad that this is being taken seriously!! YAY!

Posted by: rruby | February 6, 2009 05:12 AM

Hi,
It's so rewarding when the dangerous work the investigators do yields results. I'm greatful to those who risk doing this work for the sake of the animals who cannot defend themselves. Peta is an amazing organization I'm proud to support in any way I can. Thank you so much for your dedication and passion for all animals.

Marie

Posted by: Maria Brullo | February 6, 2009 05:15 AM

After watching PETA's vision I believe the men involved need to seek help as they are clearly not right in the head, I hate to think what they are capable of doing to the likes of women and children. No one in their right mind would treat an animal in such a way.

Posted by: steff | February 6, 2009 05:17 AM

It is clearly a case of Aviagen cooperation with a felony. It is a pity because the image that they are exporting is terrible -I write you from Spain-.

I hope PETA continues with its fight against this torturers... how is possible that turkey torturers are still employed by Aviagen?????

Thanks to PETA for its fight, toward preventing the continued torture of birds in the company's sheds.

Posted by: Silvia García | February 6, 2009 05:19 AM

this is a great victory, small steps in this direction will eventually recreate the way animal cruelty is thought about...

Posted by: nicole | February 6, 2009 05:34 AM

on another note, i believe that PETA australia should look into the absolute cruelty of the feral pig hunting "trade" in australia... firstly the dogs used to seek out the pigs are generally starved and bashed into submission, and injured or killed by the pig (and these "cowboys" that take the poor pooches out in the bush think they are vets!!! they stitch wounded dogs themselves with no anaesthetic, and even go to the extremes of replacing the exposed stomach tissue back in, in some cases... and as a vet nurse i had to deal with the disgusting adhesions etc that occured from these "surgeries") if the dogs go missing while on the hunt in the vast aussie outback then often they are abandoned... then there is the pigs point of view, poor things are "pests" so apparently they can't feel pain or fear etc. out of nowhere they are attacked by three or four dogs being mauled until the cowboy comes in and hacks at its neck trying to hit the artery... eventually the pig will bleed to death. then people in foreign countries eat this s@#t!! whats worse is we even have magazines devoted to this blood sport where these not so well endowed men can show everyone what big men they are by how big a pig they kill. (the worst thing was a record breaking massive pig was caught in WA and it turned out to be someones pet) the whole thing is F**Ked up (dont eat salami!!!)

Posted by: nicole | February 6, 2009 05:52 AM

What a fantastic result tainted with sheer revulsion WHY are these sadists still employed by the company??They are violating it's animal welfare policies,just by having them there.. Get them out,they are a danger to these birds evil people. I feel sick to my stomach

Posted by: wendy shaw | February 6, 2009 06:10 AM

This is so sick and people like this needs to be dealt with!

Posted by: Sue Geldof | February 6, 2009 06:12 AM

It is a pity us animal supporters cannot get at the bastards that did such cruelty, we would give them the same treatment.

Posted by: Deana Hart | February 6, 2009 06:24 AM

It's ABOUT TIME someone, anyone who performs these cruel acts finally gets felony charges against them. Some small progress is better than none. Let's hope the ball keeps rolling and puts a few more thousand cruel animal torturers in jail for life, in a wire cage!! Thank you PETA!

Posted by: Cynthia | February 6, 2009 06:27 AM

the way we treat animals reflects the way we treat each other, so please think twice before you misstreat animals which are alive and sensitive forms of life
Michèle Becker (france)

Posted by: Becker Michèle | February 6, 2009 06:30 AM

They all should be treated the way the birds were. Someone should kick, throw, smack them around with a crowbar a couple of times and let them sit for awhile and let the birds feed off their blood. What is wrong with todays people,they have a brain, skin, head only difference is their smaller, it just goes to show you what freaken bullies are, What goes around comes around & I hope while in prison they get theirs right in the butt!

Posted by: dmc | February 6, 2009 06:35 AM

Congratulations.

Posted by: Cameron | February 6, 2009 06:39 AM

if they do this to a animal whats next a human, sick people in the world

Posted by: cheryl | February 6, 2009 06:49 AM

I wonder what sorta men these guys are? how can a human being be so dissaciotive to the suffering of other living creatures? what does it take to get to this point? isnt it our empathy that seperates us from animals. These men are proof some people behave like animals and some animals behave more like humans. I strongly suspect these men are also abusing their spouses and children as well.

Posted by: chante' | February 6, 2009 07:05 AM

Glad to see that this kind of abuse is getting attention. These people need to be removed from working with anything that is alive. Lets take the Obama logic and give them public assistance and a broom....

Posted by: Richard King | February 6, 2009 07:20 AM

It's the loser employees these companys hire, they hire men that are such losers, and can't get real jobs, they would rather hurt and tortue animals, because they think they are in control, but yeah who wouldn't be to a poor animal, you guys are nothing but lower than animals, I wish all of you who tortue or kill inhumanely any animal, could get the same tortue yourself, I would like to do it, I think anyone who tortues or kills anything should be killed in the most horrible way!!!!!

Posted by: Kathy Flood | February 6, 2009 07:27 AM

It is just mind boggling that these people have no heart and can be so cruel!

I hope Aviagen will fire these men!

Thank you PETA for bringing this cruelty to the public's attention!

Posted by: Cecilia Leary | February 6, 2009 07:40 AM

These men need to be terminated ASAP.

Posted by: Kathryn | February 6, 2009 07:47 AM

Please stop this horrible behavior and change your actions immediately. What sort of person would ever think that this sort of behavior is okay? There are some basic rights that all creatures are entitled to.

Posted by: Meredith | February 6, 2009 08:00 AM

YES!!!!! It's about time!!! Too bad it's so late in coming but its a great start in the right direction and hopefully there will be more charged in other slaughter houses. But I can't help thinking I'd really like to stomp and kick these former employees.

Posted by: Wendy | February 6, 2009 08:02 AM

It's about time! I hope they do some prison time with the other criminals.

Finally America is waking up.

Posted by: LovesAnimals | February 6, 2009 08:04 AM

in the words of my friend iris, AWESOME POSSUM!!!!

Posted by: gabriel | February 6, 2009 08:11 AM

I think the people that are torturing these birds should be tortured themselves!!!!

Posted by: Rebecca | February 6, 2009 08:16 AM

I'll never understand how heartless these people are. Let's face it, the only people that would work in a place like that are nothing but low life losers that are so bored with their own pathetic lives,they have to take it out on the animals. The people that employ them are just as bad cause all they care about is making money and they really don't care who does the dirty work for them. After seeing these videos, I will never eat another turkey as long as I live.

Posted by: Carolyn | February 6, 2009 08:24 AM

I couldn't bear to watch more than a few seconds of the brutal turkey stomping. To know this is being done 'legally' is beyond my comprehension.

Posted by: Debbie Shoaf | February 6, 2009 08:24 AM

I am appauled that humans could treat any animal with such cruelty. These are probably closet child molesters and serial killers....cruelty to animals has been shown to be the start of it

Posted by: Christy Sowers | February 6, 2009 08:31 AM

MAYBE WE SHOULD BEAT AND TORTURE THESE PEOPLE THE SAME WAY THAY TORTURE ANIMALS

Posted by: KIMBERLEY | February 6, 2009 08:35 AM

I continue to be appalled at the cruelty inflicted on factory farm animals. I will support you as best I can (disabled) to put a stop to this! And thank God it's a felony!

Posted by: Jeannie Gibbons | February 6, 2009 08:36 AM

This kind of work is why I remain a consistent PETA member. It creates the kind of publicity that gets attention and causes rethinking. Congratulations.

Posted by: Janet | February 6, 2009 08:38 AM

As an attorney I wrote to Greenbriar and Monroe County urging prosecutions and offering my firm's services pro bono. Glad to see they acted. I also wrote directly to Aviagen (they are headquartered overseas) and heard nothing. we MUST remain vigilant against these corporate criminals!

Posted by: Steven Penn | February 6, 2009 08:44 AM

I am glad to see a change in the system. Great job PETA!!! They all should be fired and the company should pay high fines for letting that happen under their eyes. I believe the company as a whole is responsible.

Posted by: norma longhi | February 6, 2009 08:44 AM

It's about time something was done.
It is utterly appauling how these animals are treated.
So glad im veggie.. :]

Posted by: Sophie | February 6, 2009 08:50 AM

It's about time! I have enough trouble sleeping at night just thinking about what some sick individuals do to animals - how they are able to live with themselves is beyond me.

Perhaps we should load all these people up in trucks, and ship 'em off to factory farms where we can kick and shove them around, then brag to our friends about how we shoved broomsticks down their throats.

But then, that wouldn't be right, would it?! Would it?

Posted by: Greg | February 6, 2009 08:58 AM

It makes me proud to see that someone cares about birds they have been tortured for along time...My Pet chickens will be happy too.I could never understand how someone would intentionally hurt any animal Thanks for all your hard work

Posted by: victoria figurelli | February 6, 2009 08:59 AM

The workers who are responsible for these atrocities and still employed should be fired at once for their cruel actions. Great news about the felony indictments, but they don't deserve to keep their jobs and possibly commit the same violent acts in the future.

Posted by: Anita Marshall | February 6, 2009 09:04 AM

Keep up the good work!

Posted by: Amanda | February 6, 2009 09:25 AM

I feel that the animals raised for our consumption as humans should be treated with the highest respect. Just think about it, we raise these animals only to be slaughtered and eaten for our well being and enjoyment. Why kick them around and raise them in sub standard conditions. Sad deal.

Posted by: stan gordon | February 6, 2009 09:26 AM

I truly hope that President Obama's selection to head the USDA gets serious about pursuing investigations of all factory farms. For too long, I've whondered what USDA inspectors actually inspect. These investigations need to be conducted by USDA officials NOW.

PETA can't do it alone. It is time for the Federal government to get involved!!!

Posted by: James | February 6, 2009 09:28 AM

People like that should be treated the same way they treated animals. Hopefully they will have a hard time in prison!

Posted by: Heather | February 6, 2009 09:33 AM

I got an e-mail about this today,Great job Peta. :D

Posted by: Austin | February 6, 2009 10:01 AM

I absolutely agree with Mary Jane. The government, state , local, fedaral, need to take acts of animal cruelty seriously and pass stiffer laws. Animal cruelty and cruelty to humans go hand and hand. They need to stop shrugging anyone who comes to the defense of animals as "tree-hugging liberals". It's called human decency for all God's creatures especially those who cannot defend themselves. I urge PETA to make sure these men are fired, immediately. They are a disgrace to the human race.

Posted by: Melissa | February 6, 2009 10:05 AM

It about time!!! The best news I have heard in all week!!!! Keep spreading the word.

Posted by: M.S | February 6, 2009 10:08 AM

PETA,go on with your great work!!!! Sorry for my English,but i'm Dutch!
I think it's sickining that so many people could treat animals like that....I always say: if you don't respect a animal you cant respect a human....I hope this gets better and we wake up one day and there's no more cruelty against animals!!!
God i hope so....
Keep up the good work ,PETA!!!!
I believe in you!!!!!

Gr Herriet van Velsen

Posted by: herriet van velsen | February 6, 2009 10:13 AM

Whoo hoo! That's wonderful news! Felony indictments - it's about time!!! Thank you to all who made this possible! Keep up the good work!

Posted by: Lisa | February 6, 2009 10:18 AM

I'm very happy to see a grand jury take these heinous acts seriously and rightfully indict these men! I hope the message is sent loud and clear to other factory farms and animal abusers.
On another note, while i understand how upsetting the footage is, and i'm outraged by the behavior of these men and the company, I don't agree with some of the posts that suggest violence against the people who commit violence.

We must be careful to avoid these kinds of statements. We are no better than the abusers if we promote violence.

Posted by: Amanda | February 6, 2009 10:18 AM

I am so proud of you PETA!!!!
This is why I am a member.
Congratulations and keep up the great work for the animals.

Posted by: concetta akins | February 6, 2009 10:26 AM

A simple punishment solution: Inflict the same treatment on the pepetrators while others watch and wait there turn.
I'm living quite well meat-free!

Cheryl in Houston

Posted by: Cheryl Dalton | February 6, 2009 10:42 AM

Okay this is wonderful news for the most part.
Funny thing, I was at the grocery store yesterday and was walking past the deli counter. I overheard a women saying she want 2 pds of turkey sliced. I usually dont pay much attention to these people but the first thought that popped into my head was these turkeys being tortured. I went up to the women and told her that the meat she was eating was abused and tortured and that she might want to give it a second thought. I also went onto to tell her that the turkeys are boiled a live sometimes and that she should feel guilt every bite she takes. She looked appalled at me but I think I got my point across. The deli lady behind the counter on the otherhand didnt look so happy. Oh well, that is the price we pay for the turkeys freedom, well worth it.

Posted by: denise | February 6, 2009 10:44 AM

Thank you PETA, i hope those men get whats coming to them.

Posted by: Maria | February 6, 2009 10:47 AM

These people are displaying psychopathic behaviour...someone capable of such cruel acts needs to be punished (fines and jail time) and have a full psychological evaluation. Animal Cruelty Laws need to be changed and fast!
Thank godness we have Peta!

Posted by: Kate | February 6, 2009 10:52 AM

Thank you Jesus! It makes me want to go out and become an uncover agent for Peta, to get any low life that hurts an animal..Just because they can't speak, doesnt mean they don't have a HEART!

Posted by: Hope | February 6, 2009 10:53 AM

thank you guardian angels.

Posted by: YASEMIN FIRAT | February 6, 2009 11:53 AM

Yah..........hoo

We success.

Posted by: Rosmin Maharoof | February 6, 2009 12:22 PM

I cant believe this. I still feel like im going to throw up!!! I felt like they were doing that to me. I hope that these people dont have pet of there own because I would fear for there lives. For all the turkeys out there this is the best justice for them!!!Go peta!!!

Posted by: Estrella | February 6, 2009 12:39 PM

It's hard to believe the owners of these companies have no idea this goes on.

The owners should have hefty fines if not criminal action for not having rules or detailed cruelty measurement in place.

regardless, this is a huge victory and hopefully many to follow.

way to go PETA.

Posted by: chris | February 6, 2009 01:01 PM

congats on a job well done by peta and all of us who stick together to help ensure proper treatment of all living things.while i may not be a vegan i in no way condone immoraly correct treatment of our animals. i hope that there will be many more positive changes to come

Posted by: glenn | February 6, 2009 01:30 PM

Congratulations! No animal should undergo such treatment.

Posted by: Liza Englander | February 6, 2009 01:55 PM

Like glen, I am not a vegan but I cannot bear to think of the cruelty that goes on towards the animals we share this world with. Good work Peta and especially the investigator who has the guts and the strength to carry out the process that have brought these ugly cruel things to justice, about time our governments took notice of what is going on.

Posted by: marie | February 6, 2009 02:01 PM

I am soo happy to read about this!!!!!! i am so pleased with peta and everything they stand for. i try my best to inform people about peta and also things they can do to help. i hope we see more of this good news with the other animals like the Cows raised for meat and milk and how they are mistreated and the pigs just as well! and any other animal treated unfairly :(

Posted by: Laura | February 6, 2009 02:02 PM

Thank you, PETA, for recogizing their despicable plight and fighting for those who so desperately need an advocate!

Posted by: Kris | February 6, 2009 02:16 PM

Do the same thing to the humans as they are doing to these innocent animals and all of those horrible things will stop.

Posted by: Carol | February 6, 2009 03:01 PM

i love turkey but so sad lock the 3 men up!

Posted by: Christian | February 6, 2009 03:23 PM

HEY GOVEG4LIF-

THIS SITE IS FOR CRUELTY TO ANIMALS WHO ARE HELPLESS AND HAVE NO WHERE, NO WHERE I REPEAT NO WHERE TO GO TO HELP THEMSELVES. HUMANS HAVE CHOICES. THE CHICKEN PICKERS HAVE A CHOICE TO LEAVE. A CHOICE TO REPORT ANIMAL ABUSE. BECAUSE THEIR BACKS GO OUT, DO I CARE? GO REPORT IT ON AN OSHA SITE AND GET OFF OF A PETA SITE.

Posted by: KAREN | February 6, 2009 03:46 PM

this is amazing news. this is the first big step to end animal cruelty once and for all!

Posted by: JP | February 6, 2009 04:20 PM

After watching the poor turkeys murder I dont want to buy another turkey for the holiday, they suffered as jesus did, I just cried just watching those evil men with no compassion what so ever.

Posted by: stella mae acosta | February 6, 2009 04:33 PM

I am indeed a meat eater but i do not approve of harrasment and torture,that is cruel and in humane.I do eat meat but i am not for animal cruelty.And this has seriously made me sick to my stomach watching this video.I am truly sorry for all those meat eaters who are in fact cruel and in humane,but iam not one of them and i feel highly sympathetic towards this subject.

Posted by: Samantha hubmer | February 6, 2009 04:42 PM

who is stuffed now...well done peta members.....

Posted by: paula | February 6, 2009 06:04 PM

It is so pathetic to see grown men treat innocent beings in this manner; those men are not real men, they are sad boys who deserve the same or worse treatment that they gave to those birds.

Posted by: Jenn | February 6, 2009 06:22 PM

Disgusting. Anyone who allows this people to be in the company of any innocent lives is just as guilty as the hand who tortures. The companies need to be temporarily shut down till they do clean up in ALL departments, maybe even the executives who allowed it to go on for so long. (we all know they were well aware of the situation and chose to look over it until they were given no choice). Sick people!!

Posted by: Mallory | February 6, 2009 06:47 PM

This is why I support Peta monthly! Because they catch these cruel people! I don't want to eat turkey anymore. Stopped eating beef long time ago when I saw that poor cow on the floor being pushed by the heavy machines! Cannot touch beef at all! Now turkey. I cannot believe how cruel and sick some people can be.

Thank you Peta for catching these cruel people and bringing them to justice! You would think after all the different hidden camera videos that come out, these cruel employees would think twice to treat these poor birds like this, but obviously if they are dumb enough to treat God's birds like that, they're dumb enough to get caught on video!

Good job Peta!

Posted by: B | February 6, 2009 07:19 PM

To GOVEG4LIFE

I agree that these men you speak of are mistreated, but in an overly cruel way, I'm not so sure. Man can protect himself, a "bird" as you so eloquently call them, may be able to protect themselves from other creatures of their size and strength, but a full grown man of 40? They have no chance. Now, you tell me which act is more cruel: The ruthless slaughter of thousands, or the over-working of a man who has the option to say "NO"

Posted by: Margaret | February 6, 2009 08:18 PM

It doesn't matter WHO a company hires to work for them. It is the job of said company to protect it's interest (raising turkeys in this case). The CEO's and higher ups also have serious consequences for not fulling their positions and I hope that this company will take serious action to show Americans that they do not approve or condone this behavior. I'd hate to be associated with such cruelty... and they will too. They think the economy has hit them now.... just wait.

Posted by: Jen | February 6, 2009 08:35 PM

It really makes me wanna cry!

Posted by: Kitty | February 6, 2009 08:35 PM

Great!!
i really want a lot of people to know about the animal cruelty. great news.
i'm glad

Posted by: tomo | February 6, 2009 08:52 PM

The battle is not yet over. The company's slick attorneys will probably try to negotiate plea-bargains, and they might try to get felony charges dropped altogether or reduced to misdemeanors.

In a plea bargain, the defendant pleads to one or two counts and the rest are dismissed. Then the defendant might be placed on probation and receive a lenient sentence that might include a few hours of community service. The defendants could conceivably even get their job back, legally, if it's part of the agreement.

If a defendant successfully completes probation, s/he could get a misdemeanor conviction stricken from his/her record in some jurisdictions.

Also, don't assume the defendants will plead guilty at the felony arraignment. Typically, they plead not guilty to buy time and to negotiate a plea bargain.

Another thing, not everyone takes these things seriously, and to a great many people animals are just a commodity. Not everyone feels their pain. So do not assume this fight is over no matter how strong the case against them might be. Remember the O.J. Simpson murder trial--the evidence against O.J. was overwhelming, but the jury found him not guilty and he walked.

Lastly, if the company doesn't care about the animals, neither will the people who work for them. If the company feels contempt or indifference for the animals, there probably is little or no supervision and nothing in the way of discipline.

So if the company fires these three criminally charged employees, they will most likely just replace them with another three just like them. That's what we need to try to prevent.

Maybe the company or the entire industry should be held accountable and slapped with multiple counts of criminal negligence, abuse and animal cruelty.

We need accountability and real change.

Watch this case closely and let the prosecutor know you support prosecution of these defendants and wish to see them receive the high term on all felony counts.

Posted by: AA | February 6, 2009 09:21 PM

Thank you PETA for all your hard work, it is so nice to see it pay off. Let's hope they get what they deserve.

Posted by: Leann | February 7, 2009 01:00 AM

Thank you so much PETA and investigators for the unbelievable and hard work you do for our precious animals. I think all of your undercover videos should be shown on national tv in every way possible. There are so many people who do not know what's going on in factory farms. Or they don't care to know. If they saw a PETA video, ya know real "REALITY" maybe they would be educated enough to stop this nonsense of eating animals. That would put those monsters out of business.
Proud to be a PETA member!
Stef

Posted by: Stef | February 7, 2009 01:32 AM

We love you PETA!!! Thank you
so much for all the work you
are doing to bring peace to
the animals. May these crooks
be held accountable and all
others involved. So glad we
give twenty a month to help.
Peace to the innocent animals!

Posted by: Ray and Gayle | February 7, 2009 02:06 AM

Maybe if they would bring back the old VP Al Stevens this could be stopped. This kind of behavior didn't happen when he was there. He was always on the farms. The new VP never leaves the office. Maybe some of the higher supervisors need investigated as well.

Posted by: aviagenemployee | February 7, 2009 08:09 AM

I'm excited to learn that charges were filed agaisnt these "SAVAGES". Although the charges are not as strict as I would like them to be, it is a great step to end animal cruelty. If it was up to me I would inflict pain to these employees as they had done to the innocent animals. Lets stomp on their heads and do whatever else was done (since I could not bare to watch the rest of the film). Maybe then people would think twice about abusing an animal. This is probably one of the only ways to end animal cruelty. I am a meat eater but strongly oppose animal cruelty. We should all be thankful of animals that are sacrificed every day so that we can have our meals as part of adiet.

Posted by: keila Villegas | February 7, 2009 08:37 AM

I agree with the poster that said all animal factory workers all over the world, must be tested and watched daily for any signs of abuse and then fired on the spot if they so much as hurt these poor animals. Bad enough they are food for so many!! May the same torture of any kind they or their employer inflict or allow to be inflicted on animals and birds be inflicted on them so they know how it feels to be helpless. No mercy until they beg for it and never do it again. To you managers of these companies may you continue to lose profit daily until you fire these devils and enforce compassion and respect to all living beings in your care. Until then you will suffer the same fate, now, that you inflict on these little ones. So mote it be, so be it! Amen

Posted by: Vi | February 7, 2009 10:31 AM

I am so happy with this news.
I hope that the investigation against abuse continues!
Silvia Bioli
Italia

Posted by: SILVIA | February 7, 2009 10:48 AM

I am so delighted that i am literally crying in joy. FINALLY somebody realized how SICK this cruelty it and didn't just look away and ignore it. this is a FANTASTIC victory for Veg's EVERYWHERE. YAY PETA!!!!

Posted by: Jemmie | February 7, 2009 11:19 AM

Yeah PETA! And hats off to The West Virginia State Police, it's about time law enforcement did something about the cruetly in our cities and states! I applaud you all! Thanks for your hard work xoxo

Posted by: Casey | February 7, 2009 01:11 PM

That is soooooo wrong if you were a turkey would you like to be treated like that no so stop abusing animals grrrrr!

Posted by: Bugsy77 | February 7, 2009 03:06 PM

Being a proud vegetarian it just is appauling for me to witness such torture. If there was a video of humans being treated like this, you'd surely see people getting very upset and taking extreme action, it just sickens me that this is still happening in the 21st century, to think that we live in a world where this exists just freaks me out. These men should be beaten and tortured in the same way that they beat and torture innocent turkeys that feel the same pain that they would. People need to stop being ignorant and understand that the turkey they eat is treated like this, I'm sure that would make some non-vegetarians have second thoughts before they serve this to their children or themselves.

Posted by: Kelsey | February 7, 2009 03:06 PM

Bravo !!

Posted by: Anik | February 7, 2009 05:28 PM

This video makes me sick. Thank God this situation is being taken care of. I hope those men get what they deserve.

Thank you Peta!

Posted by: Elizabeth | February 7, 2009 06:21 PM

I am really glad that abuse to birds is at last being taken seriously. like all animals or mammals these creatures feel the same pain and fear as humans do and should be treated in a civilized way. Apart from feeling that these are sad individuals searching for some feeling of power, i believe that stopping them from using animals or birds to 'get their kicks' is a huge step in the right direction. Many thanks to peta and those who have listened.

Posted by: mrs ruth mccallum | February 7, 2009 09:30 PM

Although this story revolves around exceptionally - criminally - cruel treatment of animals, the conditions in which the majority of livestock and poultry are raised, and the fear and suffering they experience during their short lives is sad and inhumane. I have posted the AP's reporting of this story on my facebook profile and am hopeful that my friends and those in my "network" will take an inventory of their consciences as they sit down for their next meal.

Posted by: Carrie Hansen | February 7, 2009 10:43 PM

Thank God, the justice is starting to address this horrific crimes. These people are beyond savages and deserve the max sentence. I hope this is only a start for animals hope.

Posted by: Olga | February 7, 2009 11:20 PM

to the person who wrote the last comment- wow i cannot believe what it's like knowing you live next to one of those places.
-- I cannot believe that there has been FELONY charges brought on against this company and the workers... I'm SO HAPPY but in a way also said because of knowing that it took so darn long for this to come to the govt.'s attention and concern. I'm wondering if it was President Obama's doing... I'm thinking that he is going to help animals ever since he and the country learned of Baby's story... maybe...? Hopefully...?

Posted by: Tanya R | February 8, 2009 12:16 AM

The abuse on animals will ever end?
I continue to fight with you PETA!
Vincenzo
Italy

Posted by: vincenzo | February 8, 2009 05:19 AM

tNx FoR tHIz InFoRmaTIon,. I Am VeRy gLad ThaT thEre iS SuCh aN oRgaNiZaTion LiKe You ThaT seRves As AniMaL'z VoIce,. YouR ConceRn wAs DeEpLY ApPReCiaTed,,,

Posted by: AnGeLiCa | February 8, 2009 07:22 AM

THANX PETA FOR DOING ALL YOU DO. I THINK "ANY" PERSON THAT IS SEEN HURTING A ANIMAL IN "ANY" WAY,SHOULD HAVE THE EXACT SAME TREATMENT DONE TO THEM AND THEN BE SHOT. SO MANY HUMANS THINK "GOD" GAVE THEM DOMAIN OVER ALL. MAYBE SO, BUT NOT TO BE CRUEL. I GET SO FRICKIN MAD WHEN I SEE THOSE VIDEO'S. AND JUST CRY MY EYES OUT. "JERKS" ALL OF EM. HOPE THEY BURN IN HELL....

Posted by: MARSHA GILBERT | February 8, 2009 07:41 AM

Go peta!! I'm glad you guys work hard to get scum of this earth get punished for the horrible things they do.

Posted by: Potato | February 8, 2009 11:09 AM

YES!!! Finally the authorities have given the proper punishment for these "people" (if they can even be called that) that abused those poor turkeys. Just becuase we as humans evolved more (intelligence and such) doesn't mean we can become arrogant and abuse those weaker/smaller then us. Let's see how long those workers can suffer they torture the inflicted on the turkeys!! By the way, I'm a vegetarian and have researched dairy companies that are kind and HUMANE to their animals. If you're wondering whose dairy products to buy from, Dairygold is extremely kind to their cows.(pasture fed and warm stalls, no cages). If you aren't ready to go vegan, buy your dairy from a kind farm. Support humane farms!

Posted by: Hunter Pontier | February 8, 2009 11:38 AM

Huge THANK YOU for everything you do for animals. Y want to see all of those bad humans suffering the same as they do to ANIMALS

Posted by: mirtha velez | February 8, 2009 03:11 PM

What kind of people can do things like that to an animal? I makes me so sad to see

Posted by: eva | February 8, 2009 03:45 PM

Liars! Why haven't they fired these men? After I saw this video (and i couldn't even make myself watch the whole thing)i didn't eat turkey on Thanksgiving & became a vegetarian soon after.

Posted by: Justine | February 8, 2009 09:01 PM

Animal Cruelty Laws need to be changed and fast!
I hope this is only a start for animals hope.
We success.

Posted by: sanavsariwala | February 9, 2009 02:16 AM

i agree 2 all of that

Posted by: person5453 | February 9, 2009 03:53 PM

THANKS TO THE INVESTIGATORS WHOSE COURAGE AND SMARTS ARE CHNAGING THE WORLD FOR THE BETTER!

Posted by: carolyn | February 9, 2009 10:54 PM

Hurray for the turkeys!
You go PETA, thank-you so much for their voice...

A couple of years ago I lived in Turlock, Ca. I lived in this old abandoned farm house on the outskirts of town surrounded by dairies and silage (corn) fields. "Foster Farms Frozen TV Diners" owns this property. Foster Farms used this property to raise turkeys. Entirely automated, workers would show up once a week to throw dead turkeys into a pile, check equipment, and whatever else needed attention during the short time they were there.
As a emergency triage nurse in veterinary medicine for the past 20 years, I never felt so helpless and hopeless as I did the year I spent at that farm house. The conditions were, and I'm sure still are-deplorable, cruel, and in-humane for any creature. Overcrowding, suffocating from heat, and injuries left daily fatalities. I just wanted to mention those lost birds.They gave their life, only to be so cruelly treated. I wanted to do more for them. I wish I would of documented their nightmare spent on earth. I have never really been able to get over my failure for not doing more to bring attention to their horrific conditions. This news brings me some closure.
Thanks again PETA.
A faithful fan, animal lover, and "WARRIOR 4 WILDLIFE",
Kym MCCALL

Posted by: kym Mccall | February 10, 2009 04:51 AM

i CANT EVEN WATCH THESE VIDEOS. iT MAKE ME SICK TO MY STOMACH. I dont know how these people sleep at night.

Posted by: Patti | February 10, 2009 11:16 AM

Goal one For PETA zero for Farm cruelty! Ha Ha HA! In Farms FACE!!!! WE are the BEST!!!

Posted by: Paul Coronado | February 10, 2009 01:29 PM

who trweats animals this wayy

those frickin pooooo tarts!!

Posted by: jenna | February 10, 2009 01:42 PM

Wow. There are so many good people out there right now who are trying SOOOO hard to get a job in this tough economy, and they haven't fired these cruel men to make room for these good people yet?

Posted by: Kristen | February 10, 2009 03:08 PM

Why don't they post the names of these sadists who engaged in this disgusting form of animal cruelty? I don't believe people involved in heinous crimes should be protected. After all would you want your kids hanging around with their kids alone in these vicious savages homes?

Posted by: Lois | February 10, 2009 03:14 PM

I hope these people go to hell.

Posted by: Elissa | February 10, 2009 03:40 PM

I am speechless and sick after viewing this video. My daughter that is 12 yrs old cried when she saw it. These men are heartless and need to be in prison. We dont eat much meat but this has really made it easier to stop completely. I can say we havent had the traditional Thanks Giving dinner in a few years because we have heard how the animals are treated and a meal is not worth that much to myself or my family. Thank you Peta for opening our eyes to this abuse and cruelty. This is to "Potato", thank you for the information about Dairygold.

Posted by: Rosie Alvarez | February 11, 2009 01:07 PM

I was heartbroken to see how brutal those helpless turkeys where abused and killed. I hate watching these type of films because it makes my stomach turn and it’s very hard to hold back the tears. However, I force myself to view them, for the simple fact that ignorance is NO excuse. It reiterates why I became a Vegan. I just don’t understand how anyone could be so cruel. Once the executives of this appalling factory farm viewed the footage, how could they not take immediate action. If nothing else, believe karma will be the hand of justice to prevail!!!

Posted by: Mandy | February 11, 2009 02:45 PM

Hi everyone, PETA's spirit way is in everybody, all over the world. Thanks for them.
Bisous of France.
xx

Posted by: Gauthier FIORITO-BASTARD | February 11, 2009 03:29 PM

it is shocking to see what some humans will do to animals.there is a part of me that wishes harm to those monsters, but i do feel the love and passion here among you.

Posted by: Donivendetta | February 11, 2009 07:41 PM

its about time!

Posted by: kellilyn meyer | February 11, 2009 07:51 PM

When I was an 8 year old child, my parents asked me what I wanted for my birthday.
I told them the only thing I wanted was to be a vegetarian.
I was so glad they let me.
Now I'm 23 years old and I have a little forest with geese and chickens I saved from batteries and slaughter.
Seeing my chickens and geese, living peacefully without a care in the world maes me so happy.
Seeing this makes me angry and very sad.
I wish I could take in all of these poor turkeys.
Thank you Peta for getting this footage to the people.
I hope they learn something from it.

Posted by: lien from belgium | February 12, 2009 08:28 AM

BRAVO TO PETA and the Monroe County authorities,GOOD WORK!
No animal deserves this ABUSE. ABUSE IS ABUSE IS ABUSE.

Posted by: MAMoore | February 12, 2009 02:08 PM

it is sad that with all these beautiful minds here we will (most likely) not meet each other until the time of the gathering in the next world. the savy can contact me on youtube

Posted by: Donivendetta | February 12, 2009 07:55 PM

If there exist equality, then this should be a concrete example. We breathe, birds breathe. If we should live, birds are given the same gift. It's not our right to inflict pain on any creature God has created.

Posted by: Chary | February 12, 2009 10:10 PM

how can anyone do that that is just crule its selfish i wish the people who do that should die just as the animals die x

Posted by: stacey g xxx | February 13, 2009 09:21 AM

i always imagined people would make diffrent choices if they just saw what went on, and for many they live in ignorance with eyes wide shut. however, no theory of mine fits when it comes to blatant torture of animals and people. well done PETA. you do such great work

Posted by: Candy, South Africa | February 13, 2009 12:09 PM

Together we can throw away, all the cruelty around animals.
They have feelings, more than those who make them sadly maltreated. Its sad to see people so mad , so stupid. keep going PETA ! Only you can show how to fight against it !

Posted by: vanessa | February 13, 2009 05:08 PM

I hope they all go to hell. I almost vomitted after seeing this video. I am ashamed that they are a part of the human race.

Posted by: Serafina | February 14, 2009 12:05 AM

the only thing i can say is that i am appalled by all of this. it really makes me sad and heartbroken to see any creature on this planet, being treated with such disrespect. it is up to all of us to protect our fellow creatures that share this planet with us and to stand up for their rights.

I can't understand why people don't cry out more to protect these animals and ban all practices of absolute cruelty to not just these animal farms, but all animals.

I hope that more people find the courage to stand up and change

Posted by: toni | February 14, 2009 03:23 AM

It is a shame that those people are not given more severe penalties
Giovanna

Italia

Posted by: giovanna | February 14, 2009 11:18 AM

finally PETA, very good
So ...GO!

Posted by: tizianatttt | February 14, 2009 12:02 PM

Thank you PETA!!! Good work.

Posted by: Sue | February 14, 2009 02:58 PM

You know I was raised on MC D's and other crappy stuff and recently with another bad peanut butter scare I tossed everything and I have family on an all organic fair trade diet my oldest son loves his meat though and my youngest is not much of a meat eatter and don't get me wrong we only have it a few days a week anyway. So how do I make the switch to vegetarian this video almost made me sick and it did make me cry but what do I feed them they hate everything. They do like tofu spagetti and beans and rice and veggie chili but i need more then that to feed them. I cant get them to try zuccini or even something as yummy as kiwi and believe me i am trying and they are some what supportive of it all but its like they are addicted to bk burgers and mcds fries and logic health talks arent working and my youngest is too young to see your video I really would love HELPFUL suggestions not mean comments or attacts on what I have done wrong so far but truly helpful advice on making the switch to veggies and making it work for kids THANK YOU

Posted by: Wendy | February 14, 2009 09:06 PM

I feel so sad that these turkeys are abused I remeber reading a packet my friend once let to me from Peta. I was already vegitarian just not part of the organization. It said if you give turkeys a small ball they will play a game simular to soccer. They are smart and intellegent and one of God's creations. He told humans when we first stepped on this planet to take care of these animals so why are we being so cruel again? Yes there is origanal sin but this gos far behond eating an apple.

Posted by: Starofthewater | February 14, 2009 10:04 PM

This is wonderful news! And thank you to the investigators, undercover workers, and the DA. There is no excuse for this civilized nation to allow this to happen. We are so far behind Europe in our treatment of animals, but this brings us one step closer to attaining an enlightened state of being. It took this great organization many years of hard work, but I think the fruition is nearing. Thank you PETA, forever.

Posted by: Jan Schultz | February 15, 2009 12:10 AM

Though I have never worked in a slaughterhouse or factory farm, and never will, I have worked enough blue collar jobs, including the one I have now, to recognize the sort of male life-forms that perpetuate the kinds of cruelty that these guys did. These are largely uneducated men, raised in dysfunctional families, a surprising number of which have any number of convictions ranging from DWI/DUI to having served time in prison for one offense or another, and many of them are not able to sustain a successful relationship with a woman and/or the children they have brought into this world. If they do have some sort of domestic partnership, they are often dysfunctional relationships as well and, as we have all too often witnessed, often results in domestic violence because their partners/children make easy targets. There are exceptions to this rule, of course, and some real men out there--even in circumstances such as these. I generally try not to peddle in stereotypes, but over the years as I have worked with more of these types I was surprised to find just how accurate most of the "stereotypes" really are.

I mentioned that I have never worked in a slaughterhouse or factory farm, so how do I claim to know what I am talking about? A few brief examples should suffice:

1. A small but growing local bakery operation who routinely violated the civil rights of their only two African-American employees including blaming them routinely for mistakes that they not did not have anything to do with, but that I personally witnessed their "supervisors" committing instead and routinely and openly referring to them as "Ni--ers." Yes, for those who are wondering, I made a full and extensive report to our local office of the EEOC, (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission), and told those men how to file one as well if they chose to do so, which they did. Thanks to these reports the government stepped in and began to investigate, uncovered a wide range of abuses, in addition to the civil rights violations, and, as a result, they chose to sell their business to responsible people rather than pay the massive fines they were going to have to pay.

2. Then there was the case of a health food store that I worked for that prided itself on its liberal attitudes--so "liberal" in fact that one of the employees who worked in our department routinely showed up late, if at all, and was almost always under the influence of who knows what that day. One day he was actually lying on the floor, passed out, and when I called the store manager to report this he refused to believe me. Not one supervisor of any sort came to our department to verify my concerns. Finally, a woman who was shopping in the store in the time and came to our department to get a couple of things, saw him passed out behind the counter, and understandably grew quite alarmed. I informed her that I had already reported the matter, but that no one would listen to me or respond--maybe she, as a customer, would have better luck. She did report it and this time the "manager" did grace us with his appearance where he was forced to eat humble pie when he saw me standing there silently witnessing the scene. Curiously enough, this is the same "manager" who, as we all later learned, was fired for embezzling large amounts of money from the store.

3. Then there is the case of my current employer, a very large operation, the stupidity of which could fill volumes, literally. One evening we were all treated to sight of two "men," who had been exchanging words for a couple of hours, suddenly explode and one started beating the hell out of the other one--at one point grabbing his opponent, ramming him head-first into a steel support beam, splitting his head open. Where were the "managers" during all of this? Good question--where were they?

Does this mind-set sound familiar? Though women are capable of their own stupidity on the job, (yes I have stories), sadly, more often than not, the perpetrators are "men." If you happen to get to know these guys and hear them talk about the problems they are experiencing in their lives and you ask them, as I have, if they have done anything to resolve the problem, more often than not you get nothing but excuses--reasons why they can't go to rehab, why they can't become responsible husbands/fathers, why they can't complete their GED, why they can't enroll in one or two courses at the local university, on and on, blah, blah, blah. Take "men" such as these and put them in a slaughterhouse or a factory farm and the results are now plain for all of us to see.

Is it any wonder that Aviagen executives haven't fired these guys despite giving assurances to the contrary? It's because THEY ARE THESE GUYS! They are merely the ones who managed to eek out a degree of some sort at some university or other so that they could move into the corporate office.

Posted by: David | February 15, 2009 11:09 AM

but with but one provision that all they have is the video "MEET YOUR MEAT" on a 24-7 channel,thank you

Posted by: bill | February 15, 2009 02:28 PM

This is one of the reasons I love PETA so much. You guys rock! I'm grateful for all the caring and passionate people who work undercover to witness the truth.

Posted by: Andree Sophia | February 15, 2009 10:09 PM

...West Virginia? Huh, who would of thought.

Posted by: sick_of_humankind | February 16, 2009 12:47 AM

hell yeah. and it's about damn time too.

Posted by: Emily | February 16, 2009 03:26 PM

i think PETA should send this huge list of comments to someone who WILL get these men fired. just saying, i think it's something to think about. =]

Posted by: Emily | February 16, 2009 03:29 PM

why do they have to do that? that was just so cruel! i wish those people who did that will suffer just as much as the bird suffer while they do that to them!

Posted by: briexcell | February 16, 2009 07:43 PM

Hmmm, given the IQ of most people who work in slaughter houses and chicken/turkey farms leaves no doubt that this abuse goes on and on and on ... BUT keep up the excellent investigative work PETA. I could never do that kind of work - I can't even watch the video.

I became a vegetarian after sitting in my car, pulled in the drive too intent on listening to leave the car, listening to a current affairs story on radio 'Hack' on JJJ in Australia that was reporting from inside an abattoir. I didn't sleep that night. The word "abattoir" comes from the French verb "abattre" "to strike down" - says it all doesn't it?

Posted by: Victoria | February 17, 2009 06:42 PM

great news
I hope that people go to the jail..

sorry if my english is bad
im from chile
but from here I give my support to the animals and peta

Posted by: naxitta | February 19, 2009 09:02 PM

it seems like in this country people seem to want to protect animals that are pets and companions some cocern is thier for amimals in labs for experiments butb that should be stooped too because it can be now But it seems animals used primarily for food and their skins being used for clothing and such have not seem to get the outrage from people when they witness these horrible cruel acts done agaist these animals it seems like thiers a barrier because thier used foe food and they have no value We have to change the general public view on this and slowly this has happened with the connviction of these men and more people are going veg because of this us that care about this relly have to get behind organizations like PETA because they have resourses to confront it if we get behind them and other org that do so and hope to make the rest of the general puplic see this for what is horrible abuse to animals and it should not be tolarated in the US also we really have to get after our politicins since they represent our voice and make the laws

Posted by: Carol | February 22, 2009 03:35 PM

This is great!!!! The men who stomped and threw and kicked and cut and punched and extra specially the man with the broom stick should all have the same done to them. Id be glad to do it if came to it!!!!

Posted by: Amy | February 23, 2009 05:10 PM

What is the best to begin own blog by free?

Posted by: Porka | February 26, 2009 03:57 AM

YES!!! We HAVE to stop the cruelty in this country and then on to stop it in every country!!

I am pledging to becom a vegan. I can't stand the cruelty.
I am so furious, I wish I could do what those people have done to the chickens, to them. (Did I say that right?)
All animals have feelings.
And can you imagine what God thinks of how the creatures he created have been treated?

Posted by: Lindal | February 26, 2009 01:35 PM

Elizabeth,
I have had plenty of awful, low paying, exhausting jobs with no benefits in my life. None of them required me to perpetrate violence against animals. Furthermore, to say that we should feel as bad for the workers as we do the animals is just ridiculous. The animals are forced to be there and to endure abuse. The men do that of their own free will. I have NO sympathy for workers that get paid to abuse animals. In fact I believe they are a big part of the problem. They seem to enjoy it from the footage I've seen. If these factories couldn't find workers..wouldn't they have to change their business model a bit? They are all criminals and the animals are the victims. I don't even think prison is an option..just cost taxpayers more money and they won't be rehabilitated anyway since the only thing they think they did wrong was to get caught. We can only hope that tragedy visits these people sooner rather then later and evidence of their existence could be erased.

Posted by: heather | February 27, 2009 01:26 PM

I'm believe only the choice to be vegan save the humans from there destruction.
A human animal cause the suffering of hundreds fellow animals in his life, if he his meat eater.
Delegate the murder to less privilege human animals it's not a solution, vegan it's the only choice.
Animal have the right to live as us, without unnecessary pain.

Less humans animal= less need to inflict horrendous pain in the factory farms.

Posted by: Fulvia | March 18, 2009 12:58 PM

Thank you, PETA.

Posted by: Megan Hobbs | March 20, 2009 01:49 PM

I believe the company it self is even more guilty for LETTING this happen, playing dumb does not always work

Posted by: frank | March 20, 2009 03:14 PM

Thanks PETA. Its so sad I am afriad to watch the video.

Posted by: m | March 23, 2009 02:03 PM

I am newly trying to become vegetarian and after watching this footage, my choice is clear..NO MORE MEAT. I watched the video and couldnt stop crying..my solution---require all slaughterhouses to have windows, I bet the world would become vegetarian at that point. Horrific, and so entirely inhumane. Im happy there is PETA, who else will speak up for these poor animals?

Posted by: Ms. Riki | April 2, 2009 10:57 PM

I'm glad to see that all this is finally coming out into the open--cruelty on factory farms. It needs to be stopped, permanently and ASAP!!!
All animals have feelings as human beings do and they also feel pain which apparently some vicious people think they don't feel pain. Maybe these people who do this animal cruelty in factory farms need to go through the cruelty they are inflicting on the poor animals and see what it feels like!!!! They couldn't take it if they traded places with the animals, believe me!!! A lot of people can't even take going to a dentist, let alone being kicked and gouged and whatever!!
Care 2 people, let's keep making petitions to stop this all over the world!!
Jerilyn Capaccione

Posted by: Jerilyn Capaccione | April 22, 2009 08:38 AM

I think the only reason the charged them as felonies is because torturing animals for game is sick and in many cases leads to serial killers.

Posted by: Pande | April 25, 2009 08:11 PM

finally the government is taking action

Posted by: ali | May 11, 2009 05:51 PM

I was so excited when I saw this article- I've been scratching my head about this for a long time... How come the people on animal planet shows get arrested, etc. for leaving a dog outside with a short chain and dirty water (I know, I know- it's worse than that) but "food" animals are severely tortured, not just neglected and NOTHING happens!?

Posted by: Woman King | June 11, 2009 11:59 PM

Thank you Peta, and all of you supporters out there!!
Fighting for animals' rights and farm animals cruelty is not easy.
People, including my friends and family, still look at me like I am a crazy fan for trying to find vegan products and writing to companies to find out if they are cruelty free.(most my friends and family are from Latin American origin).
Changing the way people are used to seeing and treating animals has to change everywhere little by little.I am doing my small part hoping that someday, rats and mice are respected and seen as the cute animals they are, and not like nasty pests.
Gracias!

Posted by: Letty | June 17, 2009 04:38 PM