Family Wins $300,000 Settlement After County Slaughters Pet Goat at Fair
A California family has won a $300,000 settlement after their beloved pet goat was seized and slaughtered by county officials due to a seemingly technicality at a county fair. The case highlights the importance of due process and raises questions about the handling of livestock within such events.
A Devastating Misunderstanding
The ordeal began at the Shasta County fair in 2022. Jessica Long entered her daughter’s seven-month-old goat, Cedar, into an auction. However, before bidding commenced, Long’s daughter changed her mind and couldn’t bear to part with her beloved pet.
Long promptly withdrew Cedar from the auction, offering in writing to compensate the potential buyer. Unfortunately, fair officials refused the withdrawal request, citing their rules, and Cedar was sold for $902.
A Determined Fight for Cedar
Long took matters into her own hands, relocating Cedar to a farm over 200 miles away in Sonoma County. Despite this, fair officials persisted in demanding Cedar’s return.
The situation escalated when a sheriff’s detective obtained a warrant to search farms purportedly related to Cedar’s whereabouts. However, Cedar was not found at any of the locations. The lawsuit alleges the detective then proceeded to search other farms without valid warrants.
Ultimately, Cedar was confiscated and turned over to individuals deemed his "rightful owner." Tragically, Cedar was slaughtered before Long and her family could retrieve him.
Legal Action Follows
Long filed a federal lawsuit against the county and sheriff’s office employees, alleging they violated their due process and right against unreasonable search and seizure.
Vanessa Shakib, co-director of Advancing Law for Animals, stated, “Unfortunately, this litigation cannot bring Cedar home. But the $300,000 settlement with the county of Shasta and Shasta county sheriff’s office is the first step in moving forward.”
While the fight is far from over, this settlement is a crucial step toward justice for the Long family.
Holding Organizations Accountable
Long is still pursuing litigation against fair organizers, employees, and a volunteer. This case emphasizes the need for
- Transparency and clear communication at county fairs regarding animal welfare and auction regulations.
- Strict adherence to due process and proper legal procedures when dealing with animals and property.
- More robust protections for the rights of animal owners.
Do your part:
If you’re affected by animal cruelty or injustices like this, contact your local animal protection organizations and advocate for stricter regulations and better safeguards for animals.
