Mink Release Terrorism Charges Reduced

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A Pennsylvania judge has dismissed terrorism charges against two individuals accused of releasing hundreds of mink from a fur factory farm. The defendants, Cara Mitrano and Christopher Legere, were charged with ecoterrorism and other counts after allegedly freeing the animals to prevent them from being killed for their fur.

Judge Paige Rosini reduced the charges, including dropping one of the most serious ecoterrorism charges, which required an intent to intimidate or coerce. However, the defendants still face multiple felonies, misdemeanors, and summary offenses, including misdemeanor animal cruelty and felony aggravated animal cruelty.

The case has sparked debate about the definition of terrorism and the treatment of animals in the fur industry. According to Chris Carraway, a staff attorney at the Animal Activist Legal Defense Project, ‘The idea that it is terrorism to free animals slated to be killed strains credulity. The court made the right call.’

The defendants were accused of using bolt cutters to break into the farm and release the mink. They were connected to anarchist communes and had discussed receiving financial support for their bail. The state had previously dropped a count of employee of a corrupt organization, an alleged violation of Pennsylvania’s racketeering law.

The dismissed charges include misdemeanors such as loitering, accidents involving damage to property, and reckless endangerment. The defendants’ attorneys argue that the dismissed counts for burglary and agricultural vandalism were redundant of other charged counts.

The case highlights the ongoing controversy surrounding animal rights activism and the treatment of animals in the fur industry. As the defendants face decades in prison, the debate is likely to continue, with many arguing that the charges are excessive and that the defendants’ actions were motivated by a desire to protect the animals.