A Texas teenager has been accused of killing a classmate’s show goat by force-feeding it pesticide.
Aubrey Vanlandingham, 17, faces a felony charge of cruelty to livestock animals, according to court records. Police allege in an affidavit that Vanlandingham used a drench gun to give pesticide to the goat, named Willie, at her high school’s barn in Cedar Park, Texas, in October...
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The affidavit claims Vanlandingham recorded a video of the goat and sent it to its owner. The goat died the following day after experiencing convulsions and breathing problems. A necropsy later confirmed the cause of death as pesticide poisoning.
Authorities allege that Vanlandingham admitted to killing the goat because she believed the owner’s daughter, who was showing the goat, was a “cheater.” Police also say she confessed to previously attempting to harm the goat.
When police searched Vanlandingham’s phone, they reportedly found internet searches such as “How much bleach can kill an animal,” “poisoning pets, what you should know,” and “How to clear search history,” according to the affidavit.
It is unclear if Vanlandingham has entered a plea. Jail records show she was released on a $5,000 bond. Her attorney has not yet responded to requests for comment. Vanlandingham is scheduled to appear in court on January 15.
