ROCKEFELLER TWP., Pa. (WBRE/WYOU) — Hundreds of mink were released from a farm in Northumberland County, and two men are facing charges.
According to the Pennsylvania State Police on October 19 around 12:53 a.m. PSP Stonington responded to the mink farm on State Route 89 for a report of two individuals caught on camera releasing mink, which resulted in 200 released mink.
A press release was sent out by the Fur Commission USA stating that 700 mink were released and most of the mink are now being recovered.
Christopher Legere, 25, and Cara Mitrano, 27, both from Massachusetts were charged for the release of the mink.
Farmers face ongoing harassment, trespassing, and threats while simply doing their jobs. Under the Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act (AETA), anyone who engages in conduct aimed at damaging or interfering with an animal enterprise is legally considered a terrorist. We’re grateful authorities are treating these actions seriously.
Challis Hobbs, Executive
Director of Fur Commission USA
State Police say Legere and Mitrano were taken into custody and are being charged with agricultural vandalism, criminal mischief- damage of property, theft by unlawful taking, cruelty to animals, burglary, and criminal trespass.
Legere and Mitrano are in Northumberland County Prison awaiting arraignment.
Nexstar's WBRE is working to determine the exact amount of mink that was released.