Animal rights group, Compassion Over Killing released disturbing video Tuesday afternoon. In it, cows struggle to stand and walk. Some are hoisted in the air by one leg as they kick and flail. Others are shocked and prodded on the way to slaughter.
The group claims the video was shot at the Central Valley Meat Co. in Hanford. It also sent a copy to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
After seeing the video, the USDA launched an investigation and said, "Upon confirming several humane handling violations, the Food Safety and Inspection Service suspended operations at the facility and is prepared to take further action as warranted by the investigation."
The main gates were closed Tuesday but the parking lot was full and trucks continued to go in and out.
Kings County Supervisor Doug Verboon also stopped by. He said the closure isn't good for the county, "Any time we have Ag in the news, it's always negative...to see someone infiltrate a business like this and look for a reason to shut it down is devastating."
Investigators have questions, whether any slaughtered cows were sick and whether any beef from sick cows made it to our food supply. Under federal regulations, both are not allowed.
Owners of the plant would not speak on camera. Instead, Co-Owner Brian Coehlo released a written statement, "Our company seeks not just to meet federal humane handling regulations, but exceed them."
Central Valley Meat Co. supplied beef for In and Out Burger. Following these allegations, the fast food chain has severed it's ties with the plant.
TXT 24
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