A man accused of embarking on a three-hour shooting spree in Northern California, resulting in the deaths of 81 animals, including miniature horses, goats, and chickens, has pleaded not guilty to charges of animal cruelty and other offenses. The suspect, a 39-year-old man, appeared in court following his arrest by Monterey County Sheriff deputies for allegedly using multiple weapons to shoot the animals housed in pens and cages in the small community of Prunedale.
The animal owners, who have chosen to remain anonymous, expressed their distress over the incident. According to Monterey County Sheriff Commander, the scene was described as traumatic as the animals were beloved pets of the community members. Among the animals killed were 14 goats, nine chickens, seven ducks, five rabbits, a guinea pig, and 33 parakeets and cockatiels. Additionally, a pony named Lucky and two miniature horses named Estrella and Princessa were among the casualties.
