Posted August 17, 2011 by Rachelle Owen
OK, I have to contain my rage with this one.
You have just got to be kidding me.
Ohio County, Indiana, is home to an extraordinarily cruel event called “Snapperfest”—next scheduled for this Saturday, August 20! Every year at the Campshore Campground, wild-caught snapping turtles endure terrible violence at the hands of participants. The frightened animals are grabbed by their tails and repeatedly slammed to the ground. Their heads are yanked from their shells, and they are then swung around until “contestants” are able to wrap their fists around the animals’ necks.
PETA, without success, appealed to the compassion of the Ohio County commissioners. Now it’s your turn. Please contact the commissioners and the campground, as well as Rising Sun Council Members, and politely ask that they do the right thing and replace this cruel event. And please spread this alert far and wide.
Please send polite comments to:
The Honorable Connie J. Brown
Ohio County Commissioner
yvonnewalton@hotmail.com
The Honorable Todd Walton
Ohio County Commissioner
twalton@cinergy.com
The Honorable Connie Smith
Ohio County Auditor
ohioctyauditor1@earthlink.net
Campshore Campground
812-438-2135 (office)
812-290-5939 (cell)
info@campshorecampground.com
Councilman Pro-Tem Mike Padgett
mpadgett@orvcomm.com
(812) 438-3340
Councilman Steve Slack
sslack@orvcomm.com
(812) 438-3340
Councilman Lynn Graves
lgraves@orvcomm.com
(812) 438-3340
Councilman Bud Radcliff
bradcliff@orvcomm.com
(812) 438-3340
Councilman Roy Powell
rpowell@orvcomm.com
(812) 438-3340
Call or write and report back at StreetTeam@peta2.com for 1,000 points.
556 days ago
0
I just sent emails to each of the emails listed above. I’m so appalled by this it makes me sick. I am from the state of Indiana, time and time again individuals mostly living in small towns (from what I have experienced) find it funny to do such things to innocent animals. They are uneducated to say the least. How stupid can one be to think that this is ok?? I am determined to help put a stop to this. i cannot get my head around this!
601 days ago
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They are sick!
618 days ago
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PLEASE PUT A STOP TO THIS ‘EVENT!!!!’ There is NOTHING redeeming about this behavior. And the fact that it is PROMOTED AND PERMITTED is sickening. Another reason to be embarrased to be a Hoosier. It must stand for Who’s ur dumbass?!
This overweight waste of space on this earth & poor exuse for a human being should be working or doing some REAL exercise.
I hope others will have the courage to speak up for the true innocent…..NON-human creatures. They have no voice and need us so desparately.
626 days ago
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Don’t these people have anything else to do than torture a poor defenseless animal? These people are sick and need to be punished for this crime against nature!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
630 days ago
0
stop such events, this is pure cruelty!
630 days ago
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id hurt him if he was the turtle !!!! urrr >:(
632 days ago
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As far as I’m concerned, this “sport” ranks right down there with cock fighting, dog fighting, bear baiting and any other mishandling of animals who cannot protect themselves. What a bunch of barbarians. I am ashamed for them and of them. What next?
We no longer have to wonder where sadistic children from in Indiana. They learn it from their sadistic fathers.
633 days ago
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As I see potential health violations as snapping turtles carry SALMONELLA and other parasites, the people in a PUBLIC GATHERING are grabbing these turtles full of diseases including putting the heads into their mouths (biting them?). The water is full of Salmonella and it splashes on the audience. Most likely FOOD and beverages are being served. I reported this entire matter to the DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH in Indiana for possible violation of health codes in a public place. Children learn from the parents posing danger of handling dangerous wildlife (if these turtles bite these children can lose their fingers).
633 days ago
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Please cancel this event. Torturing is NOT entertainment!
634 days ago
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sorry i meant coyotes
http://www.fieldandstream.com/blogs/hunting/2010/11/protested-coyote-hunt-school-fundraiser-garners-huge-turnout
634 days ago
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this reminds me of s “fundraiser” a school was doing here on New Mexico a few months back.For every wolf you killed you got $50.00.This was insane!!!!!!The reporter who was announcing this cruel and inhuman fundraiser was snickering!!!!!I blame the governor!! she’s a b**ch!!!!!
634 days ago
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do they like have nothing better to do up there???really? i guess unevolved people live in ohio.(no offense to those who are evolved and are from ohio!)
623 days ago
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Hi Karla, the state of Ohio certainly has animal cruelty problems, but I believe this was from Ohio county, in the state of Indiana.
634 days ago
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OH MY GOD THAT IS TRULEY EVIL o.0
634 days ago
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Any mockery of the animals is cruel, this can only scum! how can they live on this earth? It’s not people!!!
634 days ago
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WTF!?!?!?! D:
635 days ago
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I wish someone who knows would inform everyone of whether we succeeded in stopping this event. Thank you to everyone who made calls and emails. I spoke to the County Sheriff and he said he didn’t think what was going on constituted torture! I asked him to promise me he would stop it if they were killing the turtles. (How do you swing a vertebrate animal around by the neck without killing it?). He had received other calls and was going to “check it out”. I also wrote to Tourism Dept. and all the other contacts listed. Sounds like those in authority were pretty apathetic. I would like to go further with this if it happened but we need PETA’s support here. Please let us all know the outcome and next steps. Thank you.
633 days ago
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ROGER MONTPETIT, PLEASE BEFRIEND ME ON F/B…I GOT IN THERE AND WAS ESCORTED OUT. I WILL GIVE YOU SOME INFO. THANKS.
635 days ago
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This is an email I received in response to my snapperfest emails. From Petercheff, Linnea” <lpetercheff@dnr.IN.gov
Petercheff, Linnea" <lpetercheff@dnr.IN.gov
Thank you for contacting the State of Indiana about the event known as Snapperfest.
Snapperfest is an annual event at a private campground in Indiana at which individuals are timed on how quickly they can capture a common snapping turtle, coax the turtle to stick its head out, and grab it by the neck without killing it and without getting bitten.
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has investigated this matter, including a visit to the recent Snapperfest. The event organizer told IDNR that current contest rules prohibit individuals from smacking the turtles on the ground as was seen in a YouTube video circulated widely on the Internet.
To our knowledge and from our onsite observation, this abuse is no longer allowed at Snapperfest, and we are told the individual seen in the YouTube video can no longer participate in the event.
The IDNR has an interest here to the extent of ensuring that all applicable laws are followed with respect to a wild animal.
The common snapping turtle is one of three turtles considered a game species in Indiana. The other two are the smooth softshell turtle and spiny softshell turtle. All three are subject to state laws that regulate their taking from the wild. Those laws include the purchase and possession of a fishing or hunting license for anyone age 18 or older, plus a daily bag limit and possession limit. Furthermore, Indiana law prohibits the sale of all native turtle species.
Many individuals who have voiced objection to Snapperfest point to the animal cruelty laws found in Indiana Code 35-46-3. However, that law is not applicable in this instance because it provides an exemption for wild animals that are legally taken and possessed under the authority of Indiana Code 14-22.
635 days ago
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from Petercheff, Linnea
date Tue, Aug 23, 2011 at 2:30 PM
subject snapperfest
Thank you for contacting the State of Indiana about the event known as Snapperfest.
Snapperfest is an annual event at a private campground in Indiana at which individuals are timed on how quickly they can capture a common snapping turtle, coax the turtle to stick its head out, and grab it by the neck without killing it and without getting bitten.
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has investigated this matter, including a visit to the recent Snapperfest. The event organizer told IDNR that current contest rules prohibit individuals from smacking the turtles on the ground as was seen in a YouTube video circulated widely on the Internet.
To our knowledge and from our onsite observation, this abuse is no longer allowed at Snapperfest, and we are told the individual seen in the YouTube video can no longer participate in the event.
The IDNR has an interest here to the extent of ensuring that all applicable laws are followed with respect to a wild animal.
The common snapping turtle is one of three turtles considered a game species in Indiana. The other two are the smooth softshell turtle and spiny softshell turtle. All three are subject to state laws that regulate their taking from the wild. Those laws include the purchase and possession of a fishing or hunting license for anyone age 18 or older, plus a daily bag limit and possession limit. Furthermore, Indiana law prohibits the sale of all native turtle species.
Many individuals who have voiced objection to Snapperfest point to the animal cruelty laws found in Indiana Code 35-46-3. However, that law is not applicable in this instance because it provides an exemption for wild animals that are legally taken and possessed under the authority of Indiana Code 14-22.
635 days ago
0
DNR are probably all hunters themselves…Read this excerpt from a piece by Anthony Marr.
“Democracy means majority-rule, but minority-rule by power elite is not uncommon, if not rampant. And it could even be written into the constitution itself. The constitution of New Jersey, for example, stipulates that of the 11 voting member of the Fish & Game Council, 6 must be hunters. In most such case, all 11 are hunters, because any odd-man-out will be ostracized mercilessly until he/she quits. This is pseudo-majority-rule within the Council, but real minority rule in the entire state of New Jersey. The result is a set of hunting laws by hunters, for hunters, while the non-hunters and anti-hunters of New Jersey, be they hikers, campers, photographers, bird-watchers, biologists, ecologists…, who add up to 99.2% of the population (only 0.8% of New Jerseyan’s hunt) have no say in the matter whatsoever. Some democracy.”—-Anthony Marr
635 days ago
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people are just plain stupid and ignorant
587 days ago
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Totally agree with you! I am so not proud of the company I have. Humans are so cruel
635 days ago
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Does anyone knows of any video documentation taken of this event? Very important to have this in order to try to prevent it from happening next year. Contact 13point7billion@gmail.com. 13point7billion.org
635 days ago
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PLEASE DO STOP!!! This is absolute cruelty. STOP! STOP! STOP!
635 days ago
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What the hell? i can’t believe this is legal! this totally pisses me off! i can’t believe anyone would have the nerves to do this to an innocent creature like a turtle. this so wrong!!!!!!!!!! oh, didn’t you notice that the turtle was squirming around trying to get loose and free from the heartless bitch. i can’t believe either that tons of people flock to this event. it’s as bad as cock and dog fighting. these innocent creatures have feelings like you and I. stupid people!!!!!!!!!!!
635 days ago
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IDIOTS!!! >:3 hahahah
635 days ago
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White Trash Neighborhood event!!! Arrests should be made.
635 days ago
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This is obviously a White Trash Neighborhood Event!!! Shame on U.. Since the cruelty is documented Arrest should be made for animal cruelty!
635 days ago
0
Did they succeded ? Did this actually Happened ?
635 days ago
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According a very bland TV news report with obviously censored video clips (WKRC, Cincinnati), it apparently did take place. Their concluding statement: “Sponsors tell us they’re so careful with the turtles that anyone appearing to hurt the animals is immediately thrown off the property.”
Both the news report and original YouTube videos are posted together here: http://nytts.org/nytts/snapperfest.htm. People can judge for themselves the truth of that statement.
636 days ago
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This “activity” is the hunting/fishing community of the USA. We’re guilty of collectively allowing them to sell us blood sport in the guise of altruism—”we control populations.” And they can’t control the population of their own inbred homes.
How can the most overpopulated species on the planet enforce populations? It’s absurd. They raise and reccruit children to be future sociopaths, “just like daddy!”
636 days ago
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I am in a fight to keep the Ohio Co. Indiana wikipedia page reflecting this blood sport. Please help me to keep the following notations in effect in the page, as they are trying to edit it out:
“Ohio County, Indiana, is home to an extraordinarily cruel event called “Snapperfest”. Every year at the Campshore Campground, wild-caught snapping turtles endure terrible violence at the hands of participants. The frightened animals are grabbed by their tails and repeatedly slammed to the ground. Their heads are yanked from their shells, and they are then swung around until “contestants” are able to wrap their fists around the animals’ necks. If a contestant is bitten, the turtle’s throat is cut. Death comes slowly for turtles because of their low metabolic rate.”
635 days ago
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Mick,
Can you please leave a citation (with accessible link) at the wiki page that gives info to the readers about the Snapperfest cruelty? That would help to make it more credible and thus retain its mentioning on the wiki page.
Thanks for your input and concern.
636 days ago
0
If your an animal lover then you must make this illeagal. There is no reason to treat these turtles this way. I can’t think of anything crueler or more painful than to rip a turtle out of it’s shell while still alive and then to strangle it to death. If you participate in this cruelty, you deserve what every punishment God deem appropriate for your sick treatment of his creatures.
636 days ago
0
NOTE: I sent this letter to those listed names associated with the deplorable Snapperfest; see below. Please feel free to use as a guide for your own protest letter(s).
Thanks much.
Do No Harm.
________________________________________________
Dear Sirs and Madams; to those who hold the title of “Honorable’ —
As well as to those in charge of the events at Campshore Campground —
I am writing to express my disgust of the “entertainment” activities showcased at the annual SNAPPERFEST in Ohio County, Indiana.
As we grow in cognitive reasoning and progress towards a more civilized and compassionate society, I cannot condone the promotion and support of blatant animal abuse and cruelty. Such behavior is encouraged and determined as “family entertainment” at the Campshore Campground, involving snapping turtles (and other animals/wildlife).
I fully realize that this Email plea is past the date in getting your attention before this year’s scheduled SNAPPERFEST (on August 20, 2011). However, I expect you to pay close attention to the many protests coming in against the abuse and mistreatment of sensitive animals. Realize that such negative expressions moving in the numerous and readily available social networks and other media outlets spread like wildfire and can become widespread in a matter of seconds. Certainly you can agree — bad news travels quickly; are you truly willing to risk such an unfavorable and potentially damaging reputation, perhaps even worldwide? To avoid looking like a barbaric, backwards, and sick & twisted-thinking community of humans who aren’t willing to progress intelligently and evolve to a better state of being, I make this heartfelt plea — strongly urging you to make plans immediately to abolish any/all future events and activities that promote cruelty and/or needless murder of animals who would — if given the choice — choose to live their lives on their own terms; the same as you or I would choose!
I speak for the animals — and for the children, who are likely encouraged, cajoled, coerced or even forced to participate in these cruel activities against an animal’s well-being.
Thank you for your serious attention to this dire matter.
Regards,
636 days ago
0
So disgusting. I can’t believe people do this.
636 days ago
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Here’s what happened that day at Snapperfest – this is ALL I know, based on the account of an activist who went there(so please don’t ask me for more or expect a reply):
Amber Dillon, an early commenter in this blog, arrived at the campground (which is private property, as such,afforded some exemptions). Security was so tight that Amber was almost unable to park in their lot. Strangers were given much scrutiny.
Second round of security to the ‘festival’ itself was even tighter. Amber was surrounded and taunted by several men,and teens,some who were security, some not), who asked if ‘she was one of them there animal lovers….’ She was not allowed entry. She noted one girl outside the fence with a protest sign. No PETA there,inside OR outside at the perimeter. Thanks for nothing, PETA!
All who entered were checked for cameras,cell phones,etc. Strangers, if identified as such, were denied entry. Press/media was not there nor would they have been allowed. Law enforcement was not there, or iof there were, they were part of the local yokels and on the lookour for their welfare, not the turtles.
This barbaric, Dark Ages turtle torture-fest went as these inbred imbeciles had planned. If there are any errant photos or videos of this, I have no idea.
If anyone wants to make a REAL difference, there are some constructive ideas throughout this thread regarding the prevention and the boycott of this area in Indiana – this includes interface with politicicians other than the local brain-dead there. Perhaps PETA will research this and give some valid advice as to how/where to proceed – it’s the least they could do; as ever, the very least!
Typing in upper-case and name calling is pointless as all the valid names have been called. It didn’t help anyone, certainly not the victims. The Snapping turtles were brutalized at this disgusting ‘festival’ and are now dead. Period. May these innocent souls RIP……
635 days ago
0
So no one got video?
636 days ago
0
What happened on the 20th? Where at least some people there to disturb this “event”? I really would like to know how it turned out!
636 days ago
0
I couldn’t watch the entire video but from what i saw this is one of the most sick and disgusting things i have ever seen. If these people truely believe that this is “ok” there is honestly something really wrong with them. When a murderer is brought into court no one in the court hi-fives them and cheers! And the fact this turtle did nothing to deserve that kind of treatment, to be honest the whole thing kind of makes me want to either hurl or punch that guy in the face.
636 days ago
0
what can we do for stop this horrible violence?
636 days ago
0
I am disgusted…
636 days ago
0
Not enough words to describe how disgusting this is. Here is a website for Rising Sun, Indiana with the contacts listed above plus others:
http://www.cityofrisingsun.com/Contact.aspx
There is a contact number for Tourism. Anybody want to be a tourist around these people? Let them know.
636 days ago
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Dear Lord,
I know there must be place’s worst then Hell that we can send people to, that would do such horrible and inhumane and such painfull and senseless death to such a innocent creature. I will call all of the numbers listed and mail letters of outrage and protest to all of the officials that can stop this from happening in the future.
I only hope that if enough of respond to this, that we will all make sure this never hapens again.
636 days ago
0
I sent a tweet to Betty white and posted a new topic on Jimmy buffet’s FB page. I have a personal interest in this as a turtle I rescued 7 years ago was slaughtered on my doorstep. The left the blood stain and his foot so I would know it was him. I forced the police to come out because it is a felony in kansas to harm a pet. And they tried to tell me it was a dog or cat. I politely told them that I have worked with animals my entire life and if an animal could of caught my turtle in his pond in the dark. They wouldn’t of taken it on to a strangers brightly lit porch. They would of taken it into the shadows or bushes or home or up a tree. Plus all my windows were open and neither one of my dogs alerted. And one dog barks at everything.
Whats scary is there are children watching this event. So they are not only abusing animals but they are propagating the abuse by teaching their children this acceptable entertainment.
636 days ago
0
Actually, though I’m sad to hear of your loss, I am a wildlife rehabilitator, and a raccoon will do that very thing. They will go into the water at night to get your turtles outdoors, and they will take them to a brightly lit area to eat them. Several raccoons have done just that to 21 baby turtles I had rescued from an export operation. The raccoons have not been deterred by lights, nor fireworks, nor BBs shot in the ass. This is the reason your dogs did not alett…because it was not a person.
636 days ago
0
Arggh I only found out about this today on the 21st I hope it got shut down.
636 days ago
0
Emailed up a storm for this last week lol… Please, anyone if you have info on what ended up happening please let me know. Was it stopped?
637 days ago
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My letter:
Your county’s hosting of an even called “Snapperfest” has just come to my attention.
As a wildlife rehabilitator, and simply a compassionate human being, I find the actions perpetrated by residents of your county to be barbaric and inhumane. Such behavior is not acceptable to homo sapiens living in the 21st century. Your county makes rural Indiana look more like a third world nation after seeing video of this event. Bear in mind, this opinion is coming from someone who grew up in rural Texas.
I want to assure you that any benefit your county may derive from hosting this activity, will be dwarfed in comparison to the totality of the negative publicity you will soon endure. PETA might have been on this case previously, but wildlife rescuers such as myself have wide contact networks through email lists, forums, facebook, and twitter. I have just begun to inform the people that I know on those lists. I see that your inboxes and voicemails are possibly being inundated, according to persons who have contacted you previously, and that is before I have even involved the hundreds of people in my networks.
I fully intend to make sure your county’s wikipedia page reflects the sort of barbarism that is perpetuated by backwater rubes in your county. Should anyone looking to become a new resident in Ohio Co., or to open a business there, happen to do a websearch for the atmosphere and other ratings of your county, they will be sure to find plenty of reference to this event and where it happens.
You should be ashamed, and I would urge you to find an alternative means of country folk “entertainment” there.
Mike C.
WFRR
Wichita Falls Reptile Rescue
facebook.com/ReptileRescue
groups.yahoo.com/group/hornedlizards
Society for Horned Lizard Preservation
National Wildlife Rehabilitators Assoc.
========================
I emailed all contacts, and received 4 returned mail failures due to inboxes over quotas. They are being hammered! Keep it up. I plan to leave voicemails on the numbers of those I didn’t reach by email as well. AND I have modified the county’s wikipedia page in the first paragraph. Check it out of you aren’t too busy…hehe.
Also, I have studied law, and as a wildlife rescuer, I know the law better than just about anyone here who is not a lawyer. STOP using the Indiana state statutes against animal cruelty in your arguments!!!! IT DOES NOT APPLY TO FERAL ANIMALS, AND HUNTING AND TRAPPING ACTIVITIES. All you are doing when making this argument, is pissing off law enforcement and making sure that they will just dismiss the whole movement as a whole because you show how ignorant you are of reading a law when you use this argument!
This has been investigated by Indiana DNR and they deemed no laws were being broken. If the participants have licenses and obey take limits, there is nothing they can do, because animal cruelty laws don’t apply to wild animals! Stop ignorantly using arguments that distract from the real issue. Stop hammering the police and DNR, who can do NOTHING! Who you need to concentrate on are the campground itself, and the county commissioners, who can make a rule for the good of the image of the county. They are the only ones who can stop it, short of the state legislature making a law and that would require changing their wildlife code.
THAT IS NOT GOING TO HAPPEN AN ANYTIME SOON, SO STOP WASTING TIME ON IT.
635 days ago
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Your Wikipedia Modification is still up… Everybody check it out at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ohio_County,_Indiana
Thumbs up, great idea!
637 days ago
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SHAME ON INDIANA! What kinds of people shriek and cheer on a coward abusing a defenseless little turtle? Why not wrestle each other for fun and entertainment?
637 days ago
0
Truly heartbreaking. My emails to Padgett, Smith and Graves were returned. Here is what I wrote. Feel free to borrow:
Dear decesion maker -
I just learned of the “Annual Snapperfest” held in Ohio County, IN at the Campshore campground.
The cruelty and barbaric nature of the event makes me feel ashamed to be a human being.
I urge you to look at this video of the Snapperfest located at the following URL, http://www.peta2.com/2011/08/urgent-turtle-torture-event-scheduled.html, and then I urge you to do anything in your power to make this a criminal offense.
Please help to evolve the human race into a “humane race” by making acts of such enormous cruelty illegal and fully punishable to the greatest extent our law will allow.
Thank you,
Colette L. Slade
637 days ago
0
A lot of people on this earth are really sick.
637 days ago
0
ok so they will shut it down if what they find is “illegal”? Why does that response from the Govenor’s office strike me as completely stupid. You would think the torture of any creature, inflicting cruel pain and death, there would be no question. Idiots!
637 days ago
0
fat, disgusting, cultureless, brainwashed americans at their best the GMO degeneration!
long live the animals who sacrifice their lives and dignity to show mankind how pathetic we continue to be!
637 days ago
0
OMG… couldn’t watch it… Barbaric!!!! these are sick people.
This must STOP!!
637 days ago
0
Does anyone know what happened?
637 days ago
0
Does anybody know if this actually happened today?
637 days ago
0
cannot believe that people can be this savage and evil
637 days ago
0
This is horrible, I can’t believe how some people can think of animals as a game or something less than a LIFE! It’s no different than murder or rape of another human…this is just w.r.o.n.g.
637 days ago
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Also, I tagged this quote on the end:
“Show me the enforced laws of a state for the prevention of cruelty to animals and I in turn will give you a correct estimate of the refinement, enlightenment, integrity and equity of that commonwealth’s people.” – L.T. Danshiell
637 days ago
0
I am so disgusted by the actions of some people, it really confuses me as to why people do those kinds of things. I sent every single one of them an email and I’ll keep doing it if I don’t get a response. I want this stopped as soon as possible, animals shouldn’t have to die or be in pain for someone’s sick pleasure.
637 days ago
0
I emailed all of them the same email and I got an email back from like three saying their boxes were too full to receive more. So that’s kind good
637 days ago
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Hi! Some-one help me please!!!
Im am really really against cruelty to animals. I couldn’t even bring myself to watch that video, because I know it would be too upsetting. I want to send an e-mail to every one of those email addressing to help stop this awful event, I’m just not good in getting my point across. I dont know whats acceptable to write and whats not! Some-one give me some help please, Thanks!
637 days ago
0
That is soooo disgusting and needs to be stopped ASAP !!
637 days ago
0
what’s happening with this does anyone know?
637 days ago
0
isnt this illegal
638 days ago
0
Sent the following message (hope it helps!):
Good day to all of you ; ) I’ve been informed that you hold some form of power over this terrible circumstance. Please do what you can to stop the torture of these innocent animals. Their evolution has given them a formidable defense from predators in the natural world – but nothing compares to the predatory nature of human beings on small animals such as these! Please don’t allow the torture of snapping turtles to continue for human entertainment in your jurisdiciton.
Wishing you the best,
Kayt Chambers
Registered Professional Biologist #1967
Courtenay, B.C., Canada
638 days ago
0
I am absolutely ashamed to confess I live in Indiana..
638 days ago
0
Hey…what can you expect from a State that allowed the accident at the State Fair that caused a stage to collapse, because they didn’t even follow the weather forecast that morning or the cautious actions of the neighboring communitites…no, Indiana allowed that accident by not stepping up sooner to announce that a storm was under way already…this torture is typical of the redneck nature of Indiana, sadly…that it could get this far says everything about how much Indiana cares about teaching its children cruel torture to animals! Disgusting!!
638 days ago
0
Does anyone know what’s going on with this yet? I have been trying to call the campground and other numbers listed above all day but no one is answering (surprise, surprise). Nor were any of the emails I sent days ago returned. If I didn’t live out of state, I would be there! Does anyone know yet? My stomach turns to think about what might be going on
638 days ago
0
Just when I think I have seen the worst than humans can do, I see more. Horrendous! What bothers me, I think, most of all, is all the people cheering, and actually having children in the crowd. My god! I will right to all of the people on the list. To have this event going on in the USA, which is supposed to be a civilized country???!!!
638 days ago
0
Hoping this is a joke. How can they be allowed to do this. if’s this is real someone has to stop this.
638 days ago
0
Does anyone know what happened in the end?
636 days ago
0
I wish someone who knows would inform everyone of whether we succeeded in stopping this event. Thank you to everyone who made calls and emails. I spoke to the County Sheriff and he said he didn’t think what was going on constituted torture! I asked him to promise me he would stop it if they were killing the turtles. (How do you swing a vertebrate animal around by the neck without killing it?). He had received other calls and was going to “check it out”. I also wrote to Tourism Dept. and all the other contacts listed. Sounds like those in authority were pretty apathetic. I would like to go further with this if it happened but we need PETA’s support here. Please let us all know the outcome and next steps. Thank you.
638 days ago
0
This is unbelievable!! This people are insane!!
638 days ago
0
SICK SICK SICK SICK!!!!!!!
638 days ago
0
The telephone number for all these council people up top? Well, I spell out there names to the electric operator and none come up. However, I was able instead of spelling out the whole name to press 1 key and it would come up with random people, and I left messages. This is insane! Is this what people in Indiana want to be known for?
638 days ago
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PEOPLE ARE YOU CRAZY???OMG!!YOU TORMENTED A TURTEL JUST FOR FUN??JUST “WIN” SOME STUPID C0MPETITION??DO YOU LIKE THAT IF YOU WERE A TURTEL TELL ME, DO YOU LIKE THAT??THIS IS THE MOST OBSCENE THING I’VE I EVER SEEN IN LIFE!!YOU PEOPLE JUST LOOSE YOUR TIME JUST KILLING AN ANOTHER LIFE..:(
638 days ago
0
I sent a plea to every email listed, we have some major issues in rural areas…
638 days ago
0
Ever hear of “Michael Vick”?
This event is right up there with his case. I believe all involved should do JAIL TIME.
Along with anyone who sanctions or supports it.
This is a FESTIVAL?
638 days ago
0
I wrote an email to the commissioner asking him why they had to have the event, and why they do it. And He probably just deleted the message as so many as yours to. This is unfair, I dont care if its illegal or not, this is one of the most wrongest things in Ohio. Sorry If I am being stupid but Im MAD AS HECK. (Im not in the state of Ohio.)
638 days ago
0
This is BEYOND SICK. WHY is this being condoned…
How were these “humans” raised. What message does this send to the younger generation. That torturing animals is “cool” and a “fun” thing to do.
Get these ^&* out of there. It borders on INSANITY.
638 days ago
0
Why are they cheering that man on? All he’s done is kill a defenceless turtle that he is 20 times the size of!!
Anybody who finds pleasure in that shouldn’t be roaming the streets.
638 days ago
0
Any updates on this event? I understand one of the world wildlife organizations will be there to film. If I lived closer to that area I would certainly attend to protest but I live too far away and learned of this too late. I am so glad someone brought this event to the forefront. It takes a village sometimes to get things done…
638 days ago
0
animals are poor defenseless animals people are so hateful they hurt animals that cant fight back its really a shame
638 days ago
0
Why do some people think that animals are there for their enjoyment and think they can do whatever the like to them? These people should be punished in a manner befitting their crime. It is usually a minority but these days it seems to me that any animal is a target for abuse. IT IS SO WRONG!
638 days ago
0
Mon dieu mais c’est infect !!!! Elle a rien demander cette pauvre tortue !!!! Je vais leur faire pareil moi !!!!! Bande de cons !!!!!
638 days ago
0
STOP THIS EVENT! STOP TORTURE!
638 days ago
0
Stop this please .
638 days ago
0
I have seen a lot of horrible and disgusting things that have been done to animals (and people). this is about the worst. Even I couldn’t watch this video.
638 days ago
0
“Of all the creatures, man is the most detestable. Of the entire brood he is the only one that posseses malice. He is the only creature that inflicts pain for sport, knowing it to be pain. The fact that man knows right from wrong proves his intellectual superiority to the other creatures; but the fact that he can do wrong proves his moral inferiority to any creature that cannot.” ~ Mark Twain… The people of Ohio County, Indiana condoning this barbaric act of cruelty are nothing more than savages. And I am truly appalled by the lack of action by the authorities, therefore they too are complicit in contributing to the turtle’s suffering for the pleasure of these despicable human beings. These are God’s creatures and woe betide all of them, the abusers and those who chose to turn a blind eye to the atrocities committed against these innocent animals come judgment day for they will have to answer to the maker for their heinous deeds. But for now the world is watching Ohio County, Indiana. I am in Australia and I’m sure people of other nations are hearing about your disgusting and depraved practices.
638 days ago
0
I wrote this email to everyone on the list.
Hello,
I am urging you as a concerned USA citizen to put an end to the torture of the snapperfest! Please don’t allow Ohio county this embarrassment!
I am revolted!
638 days ago
0
NON A LA TORTUE DES ETRES VIVANTS
638 days ago
0
I´VE BEEN READING AN ARTICLE ABOUT PSYCHOPATS THAT MY THERAPIST GAVE ME….IT SUITS FOR ALL PEOPLE IN THIS ROMAN CIRCUS.
638 days ago
0
My God I am sickened how so many anymore recieve satisfaction from torturing innocent animals and children. Our society via the internet has promoted this behavior for the attention seekers to have hayday. I am going to make alot of calls myself and I hope everyone else does too. Exposure is the only way to stop this. Compassion from others and a willingness to not give up will be the only thing that prevails. We will not get the officials in office to stop this unless we expose them. They are obviously aware of this and have approved of it for years. There is nothing like good old fashioned in your face stuff that will get them to stop this
638 days ago
0
this is utterly disgusting and the people doing this are no better then the lice that bite there heads! I hope these “human beings” are punished for this crime!
638 days ago
0
This is completely sick behavior. There are even children sitting in the front row watching. Unbelievable. We live in a very very very sick world. I am ashamed to be part of the human race with people like this.
638 days ago
0
this is a tragedy! i stop in the middle of the road to SAVE these guys and they commit such terrible acts against them?! as a resident of Indiana, i’m embarrassed for their actions! i’m just now seeing this post/ reading it, but i hope those who have started action can keep the ball rolling! i read the post where one of the councilmen asked someone to bring them “turtle soup” how terrible! that person needs to be removed from their seat! what a completely BARBARIC activity!
638 days ago
0
Please, stop kill the turtles, its inhumanity! (2)
638 days ago
0
What kind of civilization is this …what kind of people do this …I have no words but disgust and sadness Look at all the kiddies watching ..no wonder our society is failing
638 days ago
0
I am doing my part to STOP THIS DISGUSTING and CRUEL event. WTF is the point of this TORTURE?? I mean is it to teach young kid’s, teens, adults that it is okay to KILL innocent creatures. SICK, SICK, SICK…
638 days ago
0
Anybody think about getting a hold of state or federal Fish and Wildlife?
638 days ago
0
I sent e-mail to all of given addresses. Some of the persons could not receive my message because their e-mail is overloaded with messages:)
638 days ago
0
I e-mailed FOX news and the White House, I urge everyone to send a message to the highest authority so as to let them know our disapproval, even if you aren’t from the USA.
638 days ago
0
S T O P I T N O W !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! W R I G H T N O W !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
638 days ago
0
WTF is wrong with you people – have you no compassion and morals towards wildlife? This is one of the most horrendous and cruel things I have ever heard of! PLEASE STOP THIS TORTURING OF ANOTHER LIVING CREATURE!!!
638 days ago
0
Stop this horror in the name of Jesus amen.
638 days ago
0
Why doesn’t someone just call the police or local authorities? This is totally unacceptable, I’m so frustrated now.
638 days ago
0
this is beyond disgusting and heartbreaking. i have personally emailed each of the email addresses on this list and thank you all for doing the same… lets hope someone comes to their senses before this sickening event takes place again.
638 days ago
0
….If I lived there, you could be damn sure i’d be there, and i’d bring some of my buddies from my unit (army) to help out. Time to start calling.
638 days ago
0
Oh Sorry i forgot to write , that i think it’s ABSOLUTELY HORRIFIC TO SEE LITTLE CHILDREN AND TEENS SITTING ON THE GRASS IN THE BACK GROUND OF THIS VIDEO WATCHING THAT IS JUST THE SAME AS SENDING YOUR CHILDREN TO CHINA OR THAILAND TO WATCH DOGS AND CATS BEING SKINNED ALIVE FOR THEIR MEAT AND FUR AND HEAR THEM YELLING YIPPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE THIS IS FUN ! GROW UP PEOPLE
638 days ago
0
ExCUSE ME !!!!!!!!!!!! They will shut it down if what they find is illegal ? THE WHOLE THING IS ILLEGAL THEY ARE STUPID HUMANS HAVING FUN AT BEING STUPID HUMAN BEINGS how low life do you have to get OH MY GOD pick on helpless turtles you are such idiots i can’t even fathom GET A LIFE PEOPLE
638 days ago
0
Here’s what I wrote to all of them:
“To All Concerned:
I am really trying to wrap my head around how anyone in a civilized, 21st Century state in the United States of America can participate in, promote or even condone animal abuse of any kind. What kind of event is this to hold under the title of your state? I would think any self-respecting person would be ashamed to have their state connected to such a barbaric and inhumane event as “Snapperfest.” And I see children on the front row watching these horrors. What are you teaching your young people? You are teaching them that animal abuse is OK and even entertainment! Not meaning to be disrespectful but you all should be ashamed of yourselves.
Please, I am begging you to STOP this hurtful and unthinkable “event” that promotes animal cruelty. Don’t think that just because they are turtles that they feel less pain or fear. They are sentient beings and this “Snapperfest” is just wrong.
Thank you,”
But just so you know, delivery to the following recipient failed permanently:
ohioctyauditor1@earthlink.net
638 days ago
0
I do not see the good or the funny thing on this. I SEE only a human been MENTALLY retarded killing an indefensible animal
638 days ago
0
If anyone lives by there please protest!
638 days ago
0
This sick event has got to end!!
638 days ago
0
Drat all my emails came back saying mailboxes full!
638 days ago
0
These “people” are subhuman….
638 days ago
0
I sent a short, personal email to every person on that list. How can anyone consider this SPORT? Let’s overwhelm their email boxes and phone lines.
638 days ago
0
what a sadistic, soulless practice. i’m really not sure how anyone who has a hand in this disgusting, deplorable, satanic event can sleep at night. may justice be done for these sweet, innocent, ABSOLUTELY DEFENSELESS creatures of God!! HUMANITY MAKES ME SICK
638 days ago
0
Contact the media – local, state & national.
638 days ago
0
Done and crossposted. Wish I had more time, I just recieved info on this at 9pm on Friday night. Need more time to reach people!
638 days ago
0
I wrote an email to the campground. Havent heard anything yet.
638 days ago
0
How sad and sick people are to view this turtle abuse as entertainment. My son, who loves reptiles, (especially turtles) and I are sickened by this abuse. Maybe someone should wrangle these guys and snap their necks! So, so very disgusting and sad.
638 days ago
0
WTH! Snapperfest! It’s more like torture-fest! Do these idiots not think that turtles have no feelings or pain? This is barbaric and cruel. I cant believe people actually gather as spectaters to this cruelty. The campground should have earth-friendly competitions. What message are they sending to the children who are around!
638 days ago
0
Seems like they have deactivated some of these email addresses. Good work people!!! And thank you to those who go there tomorrow – I am there in spirit and wish I could be there in person!
638 days ago
0
I just sent this email to all of them..hope it helps
Suzanne
Dear Council members
How do you all sleep at night, look at yourselves in the mirror or look at your families while you let this behavior go on? As a Travel consultant I promise I will never recommend your state for any tourism. I will , however, do my part to boycott your state as this is the same barbaric behavior that is no better than middle east killings. For you all to allow this makes you the same as those inhumane “people” of Iraq. This is the United States we are suppose to act in a way for our children to be proud and look up to us. Do you really think this is what we are about??
You make me sick! All of you
I have no respect for you or your pathetic community made of cowards and bullies torturing defenseless turtles or any other animal.
638 days ago
0
Okay Indiana, with the last “err in judgement” in Indianapolis, don’t you think you need to clean up your reputation for being inept?
How screwed up is this state dragging their heels on such a barbaric practice?!!!??
And I’m sure they have children there, watching this disgusting behavior and thinking cruelty to animals is okay.
Clean up your act and your state.
638 days ago
0
I just don’t get it! Animal abuse to some animals but not to the turtles. I don’t get the logic to why it is even fun to snap a turtles head. It is beyond my imagination! I’m confused if the turtles got more better I.Q. than the people doing it. To the audience applauding; where are your better judgement!
638 days ago
0
Hillbilly idiots….because they can…stupid cowardly fuckers….
638 days ago
0
What the hell is wrong with people???????? What could possibly be entertaining about torturing another living being?????????????? Just when I think people can’t get any more cruel I am proved wrong.
638 days ago
0
OMG! I cannot believe this. I am sick!
638 days ago
0
This is so disgusting and so cruel. How can people let this go on and how can people participate and laugh and watch such a sight? We are a cruel and mean race, we humans! Is there no shame at all at what we do??!!!
638 days ago
0
What is wrong with people???? Really! I’d like to do the same to these people who are torturing/abuse animals.
There is no humanity in these “humans!”
638 days ago
0
ohioctyauditor1@earthlink.net & mpadgett@orvcomm.com are not working emails
638 days ago
0
i cant believe this! this is bullshit
638 days ago
0
are those people human?????
638 days ago
0
I can’t even watch this, just seeing the blurry pic is enuf …. WTF is wrong with the human race???????????????????
638 days ago
0
STOP THIS! IT’S FUCKING TERRIBLE!
638 days ago
0
Dear Sir/Madam
I am writting in concern about the anual snapperfest.
I am from Uruguay and I volunteer on an organization that works very hard every day to rehabilitate and save injured and sick sea turtles. When I saw this video I can not express how shocked I was, sea turtles are not only animals that need respect but they also feel pain, this festival or whatever you call it is atrocious, not only it causes unnecessary pain and death to an animal that does not understand what’s going on and that without any doubt deserves to be treated that way, but it also contributes to the extinction of a whole species.
I sincerely hope that you will abolish this festival and for once take into consideration the animal it self and ask your self this questios: who are we (HUMANS) to treat the turtle that way?. What good thus this tradition have? Teach next generations to mistreat animals like they don’t matter? We are animals too. Mother nature needs to be balanced we are already messing with the environment, why kill innocent animals on the way?
I hope you will give this matter urgent consideration. No more animals have to die. This can be stopped! Please make it stop.
Your sincerely
i sended this e-mail.. hope something will bn done
638 days ago
0
I bet it’s all men with small winnies who engage in such barbaric activities and call it fun times…-I bet they feel their winnies enlarging whenever they manage to fight and kill a beast of that sort-hurray hurray-ur a big man now-here’s a suggestion-get a convertible or something-has the same effect I hear-and leave the poor animals alone before some of us really start losing it and come after all u rednecks with a vengeance
638 days ago
0
how long has this barbaric event been going on. it needs to stop now. this is the behavior of civilized people? no fnnn way. i thought i had seen the worst of people in the past but this scrapes a little more out of the bottom of the barrel.
638 days ago
0
What the hell is wrong with these people? This is with spectators…seriously what is wrong with these people to find any kind of entertainment in the torture and abuse of another living being… I am so saddened by the barbaric morons that represent the human race…Karma is a bitch you are making it a nasty stew for all of us!
638 days ago
0
This just emailed to me from IDNR: “Animal cruelty laws do not apply (snapperfest bludgeoning of turtles) because IC 35-46-3-5 provides an exemption for hunting, fishing, trapping and other activities authorized under IC 14-22. There are no laws that specify how a snapping turtle has to be killed when taken from the wild.” You MUST go there and SHUT ‘EM DOWN!!!!
638 days ago
0
I called the numbers given for the councilmen and had to leave a message. I told them that i heard of an even from PETA called snapperfest at a local campground (not local to me though…) and that what they were doing was wrong and inhumain and if anything could be done against it, it really needed to be done. I hope something happens to close it down D: it breaks my heart to hear about this stuff :/
638 days ago
0
I emailed everyone on here and almost all came back as undeliverable due to mailbox size being exceeded.
638 days ago
0
Who ARE these people?
Did I REALLY just see a huge man being cheered and celebrated and high fived for torturing a helpless creature?
They behaved as if he’d just overcome a huge challenge that required courage.
Is this what Indiana considers entertainment?
638 days ago
0
does anyone out there know what time this event starts?????
638 days ago
0
Ann Noland
RR#1 Box 298
Aurora IN 47001
Phone: 812/438-2135
OWNER of the campground – give her a call and let her know how you really feel.
638 days ago
0
Ann Noland
RR#1 Box 298
Aurora IN 47001
Phone: 812/438-2135
OWNER of the campground – give her a call and let her know how you realy feel.
638 days ago
0
Amber- can you inbox me some information? I want to be there to stop this!
638 days ago
0
Hi,
I emailed all the listed addresses..little hard to call from London..I feel pretty helpless..is there anyone else going with Amber?
638 days ago
0
This is SICK. I sent an email, this should be stopped. How cruel, the people that do this are crazy!
638 days ago
0
i called the only organization in the area listed on the aspca website and left a detailed message:
Ohio County Animal Shelter
1414 Fairground Road
Rising Sun, IN 47040
812-438-9220
amy4448@hotmail.com
638 days ago
0
I sent e-mails to all listed above, plus the police department, mayor’s office, and tourism office. Let’s hope they listen, and end this cruel and sadistic event forever.
638 days ago
0
from: Indiana Department of Fish and Wildlife
reply-to DFW
to Reynard Loki
date Fri, Aug 19, 2011 at 6:18 PM
subject RE: Comments – Snapperfest
6:18 PM (9 minutes ago)
Thank you for contacting the State of Indiana about this. DNR Law enforcement has investigated this matter. If they use legal methods to take the snapping turtles from the wild, have a hunting/fishing license to take them, stay within the bag limit/possession limit, and don’t sell the turtles, there isn’t a violation of the law. Animal cruelty laws do not apply because IC 35-46-3-5 provides an exemption for hunting, fishing, trapping and other activities authorized under IC 14-22. There are no laws that specify how a snapping turtle has to be killed when taken from the wild. If you have additional questions, please contact Law Enforcement District #9 at 812-689-4370.
DFW
638 days ago
0
ok so we need to work to change the laws that the turtles cannot be killed for entertainment purposes
SICK!
638 days ago
0
then again – it IS in violation of Indiana Penal Code 35-46-3-12: http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title35/ar46/ch3.html Respectfully ask that everyone involved be arrested and prosecuted.
see dianna’s post above
keep fighting!
638 days ago
0
Wow, that’s repulsive. Some states absolutely protect wild animals under cruelty/abuse laws. Apparently Indiana doesn’t care how people in their state and others are appalled by this behavior.
638 days ago
0
That is completely insane!
638 days ago
0
THAT IS TERRIBAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! How could people get away with this!!!!???????
638 days ago
0
that’s just a bullshit excuse to continue with their so called “tradition.” that’s crap because when you hunt an animal, you are hunting for food or pelt, not to be taken to a stupid redneck festival with tiny children around to be shown how to be cruel and savage. that’s just a load of shit and an excuse. stupid ass people
638 days ago
0
“There are no laws that specify how a snapping turtle has to be killed when taken from the wild.” IF you have to take em from the wild and IF you have to kill em (for what reasons I do not understand anyway) then at least make a law not to torture them to death!
638 days ago
0
That is the biggest pile of B.S. I’ve ever heard in my life – animal cruelty laws don’t apply???!!! What a COP OUT. We will have to wear them down people! Get busy with those emails and phone calls!
638 days ago
0
This makes no sense as it is against the law to beat an animal in Indiana yet they are allowing that to be done because the turtle will eventually be killed or killed during the act? Come on – where the lawyers?
637 days ago
0
I can’t believe it’s legal… On the plus side, I’m sure these hicks are in denial that the government exists so I doubt many of them have licenses for turtles
637 days ago
0
Hmm..well I have to say I think your laws are very ignorant. Why would there be no law about the way that animals should be killed? If there is at the very least one law that needs to be reconsidered this is it. Animals who are being “hunted”, “trapped”, or “fished” (if that’s what you want to classify this as) should at least be treated with dignity and respect in their last few moments of life instead of being tortured for the “enjoyment” of others. WAKE UP people! We are going to pay for the way we are taking care of this earth and all of it’s inhabitants. Believe me your cruelty and blatant disrespect will come back to haunt you.
Oh and p.s.
Seriously use your common sense and grow some balls while you’re at it. Stop trying to hide behind the loopholes in your law. You know as well as I do that these idiots are not “hunting”. I wish our government had the guts to take a stand against this type of wrongdoing. My God just think of all the good that could be done if our countries weren’t run by money hungry sacks of shit.
638 days ago
0
Please continue to email Governor Daniels’ office: http://www.in.gov/gov/2631.htm and call at: 317-232-4567.
Also call the Ohio County Indiana Sheriff’s office (Sheriff Eldon Fancher) at: 812-438-3636 Though this ‘event’ takes place in Aurora, IN, the Sheriff’s office has jurisdiction, not the local police.
These monsters are in violation of Indiana Penal Code 35-46-3-12: http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title35/ar46/ch3.html Respectfully ask that everyone involved be arrested and prosecuted.
If anyone’s attending the event to get video proof, pls post here and on YouTube. I’ve contacted 3 local tv stations in Cincinnati, Ohio (the closest large city to Ohio County, IN) and also emailed the Today Show. If we can supply enough video proof maybe the Today Show will investigate and do a piece exposing this atrocious type of “entertainment.”
638 days ago
0
good work dianna – please keep it up – we are behind you
637 days ago
0
It won’t do any good to call the Sheriff’s office. The department of natural resources has juridiction over such animal cruelty cases and they have investigated and said there is no crime during this event. Therefore the Sheriff’s department has nothing to prosecute. It’s NOT a crime to be stupid.
637 days ago
0
Learn to read the law, and stop using it ignorantly. It takes the thunder away from the rest of us. The law DOES NOT apply to feral animals, and that is clear if you cared to read it.
638 days ago
0
This is so sick.What is wrong with people. sick.
638 days ago
0
This cruel act has to stop.. just for peoples enjoyment OMG.. why dont they go and play tennis…
638 days ago
0
Oh yeah, because ya know, poor people have the money to play tennis.
633 days ago
0
Fine, then may they go play ball with a cow paddy.
638 days ago
0
A person doesn’t have to be an animal rights activist to understand that this is absolutely unconscionable behavior! I wish there were a way that the President himself could put a stop to this.
638 days ago
0
Email every contact listed above and if this event proceeds, we multiply the contacts by 1000 fold and assure it never happens again, while making the public careers of the authorities quite a “pain in the neck”. Maybe we should buy a turtleneck sweater for the person who bans the event!
638 days ago
0
THIS IS SICK AND CRUEL!!!!!!!!!
638 days ago
0
I am attending this activity tomorrow (Saturday)…several things can happen: stop this stupidity before it starts… arrest me for trespassing, handcuff me and take me to jail… people might come to their senses… the camp ground supervisor can step in and throw out the bullies… I can get hurt…I can pass out free beer to boycott this barbaric practice…I can bribe them (NO, just kidding)…I can speak compassion and kindess and they will listen (I wish)…some politicans might show up…Indiana Conservation will appear..(doubt it)…animal cruelty officer will come (doubt it)…off duty police officers will come (unlikely)…some protesters, like me, will appear…
638 days ago
0
They dont know what compassion and kindness is.Do your best and good luck.
638 days ago
0
good luck!
638 days ago
0
Id be videotaping the event, and putting it on youtube, if you can stand to watch.
638 days ago
0
Good luck but be careful. I’m sure it will be a mob mentality.
638 days ago
1
you have my utmost respect amber. bring a very big man with you, and several friends. lots of love to you. show these sick f@#$s who’s boss. shout em down. don’t let them have a good time. go and grab the turtles. <3
638 days ago
0
I would attend with you If I could. Your so brave.
638 days ago
0
“Those Without Wealth May One Day Prosper, But Those Without Kindness Are Utterly and Incurably Poor.” This makes Indiana look really pathetic! Shame on all who let this happen… I’d boycott Indiana but how?!
638 days ago
0
what the hell is wrong with people.
639 days ago
0
If anyone knows how to get in touch with Jimmy Buffett, please tell him about this! Based on what I’ve heard about him, I think he would care about this and be a voice for the turtles. He’ll be performing at Riverbend on Aug. 23rd and perhaps he could offer free tickets in exchange for the canceling of the event. Sometimes it helps to get a celebrity on board!
639 days ago
0
Thanks to the phone number provided by a previous comment, I contacted Indiana State Police Versailles District 42 and was told they had received several hundred phone calls regarding Snapperfest but planned on not taking action as the colonel stated it “did not break the law based on the information he received.” KEEP CALLING THEM! THIS EVENT MUST BE STOPPED, IT IS PATHETIC.
638 days ago
0
how is torturing a vertebrate animal not breaking the law??? I don’t understand…
638 days ago
0
you know what I find hilarious? that these people sit here and say it’s not breaking the law. what fucking law allows this? does anyone have an indiana law book at hand? this is ridiculous. it’s quite obvious this extends far beyond any type of legal issue, it’s more the morale of the county. it’s obvious they are disgustingly sick people, I’ll never support ohio county EVER and i’m gonna make sure EVERYONE I know knows about this. EXPOSE those mf’effers!!!!
639 days ago
0
Are you Americans CRAZY or just plain ABUSIVE? I cannot fathom the mentality of people in your country – anyone who can harm innocent animals must be SICK, and in need of treatment. Are there not enough psychologists in the USA?
639 days ago
0
Excuse me? DO NOT lump all Americans together, especially not with disgusting scum like that. The American people are SO much better than that; this is just a repulsive group of people that need to stop breeding.
638 days ago
0
I totally agree. They rednecks who love this stuff should not be allowed to breed! They are probably the same ones that teach their children to hate anyone other than their race, such as KKK attendance. Look at the picture…there are children watching! Next thing you know, the poor sick kids will be knocking off their little brothers and sisters, thinking it’s allright!
639 days ago
0
first off, it’s not “Americans” as a whole. It’s a group of people who just happen to be American redneck hillbilly fucks doing this. I would never, NEVER do anything to harm an animal, and neither would a large portion of the population. So how dare you bash all Americans. Where are you from? I’m sure I could come up with twice as much animal violence pertaining to your country.
638 days ago
0
It’s stupid to say that all Americans are bad. Generalizations like these are the main reasons why we remain divided, as humans. I prefer animals to humans…although we are animals as well, aren’t we?
638 days ago
0
There are sick groups of ppl like this everywhere in this world. It’s just the matter of exposure. There are some groups in Canada who are just as sickening.
638 days ago
0
There are bad and stupid people of every nationality, race, religion. People all over the world can be very cruel to animals. What about the running of the bulls in Spain?
638 days ago
0
i am american, but i will admit that we are a loathesome bunch over here. that being said, the big problem is we permit people like this to run amok, going about doing these things and not legislating against it because, get this, we are too scared to make laws. americans think laws are bad…they all want to protect their individual freedoms at the expense of the greater good. the jerks…. i think i will move back to europe soon where it is quite more civilized…
638 days ago
0
Look…there ARE terrible people in the USA, but that doesn’t mean all of us. Don’t generalize for the sake of animals. We need to work together on this, not fight against each other.
637 days ago
0
It’s not all Americans,,, there are many animal lovers that are trying their best to help these poor abused animals.
That’s like calling all the folks in Spain abusers and sickos because of bull fighting. Those bulls are innocent animals, too, and they are tortured. ALL animal abuse around the world needs to stop.
I hope they stop these idiots from this crazy ritual of killing these helpless turtles.
637 days ago
0
How sophisticated, enlightened, and arrogant you must be in order to make such blanket statements about a country of more than 300 million people.
636 days ago
0
These particular scums who do this hideous act happen to be American, but they do not represent me. I foster and care for dogs and cats. I love all animals. I am also American, but do not lump me in with these inhumane scum.
636 days ago
0
Where are you from Josephine? Canada clubs seals. Chinese skin cats alive. Middle eastern countries torture dogs. All countries have animal abuse. Because all countries have politicians and corporations and just plain sociopaths. So now country is exempt from this sort of thing. Instead of throwing uneducated accusations, join the good fight. Because labels will get us no where. If we are to stop these atrocities we have to band together! The power of a revolution is in the masses fighting for whats right. Not in blame and segregation.
639 days ago
0
Truly sick people that participate in the event and those who attend and support it…mentally ill people should not be allowed near animals.
638 days ago
0
Humans are capable of terrible things, doesn’t mean that they are mentally ill. Plus, mentally ill people are generally not dangerous or violent. Stop with the prejudice..
637 days ago
0
This is terrible yes but do not bring mental health into it!
I am mentally unwell myself and the people that I also know that are unwell would never do anything like this to animals!!
So please try not to alienate one group of people to make a point on something as barbaric as this.
639 days ago
0
The video has been removed from Youtube by the owner, and others who have re-uploaded it today have had it removed immediately, the owner is obviously contacting Youtube to get this video (which had been up unhindered since circa 2008?) removed, so we can’t use it. The video can be found here: http://www.ebaumsworld.com/video/watch/81767472/
638 days ago
0
There are more ways to keep it out there than just Youtube. Have those people upload to a photobucket, tumblr, facebook, flicker or other such account. It can also be uploaded to a file sharing sever like Mega Upload and the link and video spread that way.
637 days ago
0
Then I will use my from web video grabbing software and I will save it, and reupload it to my youtube account.
639 days ago
0
Please, stop kill the turtles, its inhumanity!
639 days ago
0
Seriosly, what is wrong with these people, do they think that they’re cool or something because they can hurt an animal, I’d like to see them try to wrestle a bear, see how tough they are then. What kind of sick messed up person came up with this event anyway, I don’t care how drunk you are or how high you you are, you have to be really sick and messed up to do something this cruel. Just because the turtle is far more awesome and more likable then you gives you no reason to beat it up.
639 days ago
0
Someone needs to contact the Governor’s office and those under him and the Attorney General’s office. Higher authorities need to intervene to stop this through legal avenues. Again, if I knew an attorney in Indiana I would be on the phone – someone has to have legal connections in that state…
638 days ago
0
when we realize that going through those channels does nothing, then we will have something. the only way is to go there and get in the f@#$ing faces..
639 days ago
0
Steve Slack (812) 438-3340 Mocked me and told me to get him some “turtle soup.” They must be a community of sociopaths.
638 days ago
0
I hope anyone here who lives under his jurisdication votes against him.
638 days ago
0
What?!
That’s terrible, they sound insane to allow such a terrible ‘event’
638 days ago
0
Clearly and uncaring idiot.
638 days ago
0
who is steve slack?
638 days ago
0
So what happened in the end??
637 days ago
0
Are you serious? This is supposed to be a councilman, yet he mocks the concerns of his public that he serves? Please contact his superiors and tell them about your experience. He shouldn’t be able to get away with that. Who does that??? Sick!
639 days ago
0
I called the Governor’s office today, left a message, and received a return call from a nice lady who said they are aware of this and will have it investigated and shut down if what they find is illegal.
638 days ago
0
BETTY, bless your heart…I haven’t been able to reach anyone. Read my post below. I will be there or in jail…I will not tolerate this barbaric practice…nearly near where I live. I have NEVER heard of this stupidity before…hope I get in and get to speak…If they are smart, the camp supervisor will cancel this “activity.” I bet that there will be a lot of alcohol…don’t know…fools love alcohol. I can hold my own against anyone BUT a drunk or an addict…can’t fight them. THANK YOU.
638 days ago
0
Amber thank you for going and protesting this barbarism. xx from the west coast!
638 days ago
0
Thank you so much ladies,hopefully this will be shut down for good. I will be making calls on Monday.
638 days ago
0
dog bless you!!!!!
635 days ago
0
Amber, did you video of the event? please let me know reynardloki@gmail.com thanks
638 days ago
0
Great job, Betty!!!
638 days ago
0
I spoke with the County Sheriff today and told him they are breaking the law and this should be stopped. He said he didn’t think what they were doing constituted “torture”. When I described it he said he would go tomorrow and stop it if they are killing the turtles. I don’t see how you can swing a turtle around by its neck without breaking its neck! He was receptive and said he wanted to see what was going on and would stop it if he felt they were torturing or killing the turtles. We’ll see. At least everyone is on alert and I think they may cancel it. I told him it was going to be on national tv so better to be a hero and stop it than to shame the whole state!.
638 days ago
0
YOu are freaking AMAZING!!! Thank you so much!!!
638 days ago
0
Thank you Betty, this is such a tragedy. These poor creatures are of God’s making. They need to leave them alone.
637 days ago
0
It is not illegal, so they will do nothing. If it were illegal it would have been shut down before now, as it has already been investigated by DNR. Legalities is not the manner in which to address this. Humaneness is.
639 days ago
0
DFW in Indiana insists this is legal. What did we expect. It is not. It is a Class A misdemeanor for the first offense and a felony for the second. They gave me phone number which we should all call for Law Enforcement District 9 at 812-689-4370 and the woman is taking calls to log whether people are ‘for or against’ it.
They do answer!!! Call…. Let it ring…….
639 days ago
0
Steve Slack, apt name for a councilprick, mocked me relentlessly when I called. He said “get me some turtle soup.” Call him at (812)438-3340
639 days ago
0
STOP THIS VIOLENT ACT
639 days ago
0
It would be easy to stop this event with an attorney who can practice in the State of Indiana. This is animal cruelty and against Indiana State Law and the event probably does not have the proper permits or required inspections for the event. Up to this point it appears the event has slid under the radar but with proper research could be stopped. Pigeon shoots and other similar activities in other states have been stopped in the same manner. Anyone have any family/friends who are lawyers in Indiana? Contact them….
639 days ago
0
Has Indiana gone completely, insanely mad? This must be stopped and this county and commissioners shamed.
639 days ago
0
For some reason I can’t e-mail Connie Smith or Ray Powell, does anyone have another address I can reach them at?
639 days ago
0
I have a wholly negative view of the entire state of Indiana now. If laws are not in place to prevent making animal torture a spectacle for children, they are living in the dark ages. What sort of adults will these children grow up to be?
639 days ago
0
I just spoke w/a reporter from WCPO in Cincinnati (closest major city to Ohio Cty,IN, and she’s looking for a local contact she can talk to about this story. She has the government officials listed above but if there’s an advocate locally, please give me their names and numbers.
Pls call/email the local tv stations: WCPO.com, LOCAL12.com, and FOX19.com w.your complaints. I did this am and was surprised to get a return call.
Include this PETA link in your email
this Examiner link: http://www.examiner.com/pet-rescue-in-national/snapperfest-indiana-s-shameful-call-to-torture-wildlife
and this YouTube clip I found: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kLGtX76hQbc
Pls also contact the Ohio Cty Sheriff’s Office as suggested below.
639 days ago
0
Has anyone contacted the Governor of Indiana, Lt. Governor, etc.? Someone get an attorney to step in and do something…
639 days ago
0
What phone number are you all calling? They’re all the same phone number with the exception of the campground and I keep getting the same woman who’s telling me she has no way of taking action on an event like this. I wondered if this is something she’s saying to everyone, or if I need to ask for each council member individually? Any responses would be appreciated, thanks.
639 days ago
0
This is absolutely hideous. Poor creatures. America looks pathetic and full of ignorant careless imbiciles……..This must be stopped!
639 days ago
0
Snapper turtles are not my favorite animal but this practice is absolutely sicking and these people should be thrown in jail!
639 days ago
0
im starting a petition on Change.org
search for : “stop the torture of turtles”
- Thanks
639 days ago
0
There are already 2 petitions going…
639 days ago
0
This is the polite email I sent….thank you PETA for providing the info and the people to contact!…….:
Dear All,
I read about the event 13th Annual Snapperfest that is to take place at the Campshore Campground tomorrow and said to myself, “at what point did someone think that this was a good idea and that this activity would be considered lots and lots of fun?”. Did the persons or people who created this annual event experience abuse themselves? If so, that is terrible but why torture an innocent creature? If what is done to these poor creatures was done to the human participants, I am certain they would have a different outlook on this senseless activity. Torturing any animal is cruel. If humans like myself don’t speak out for them, who will? This is viscous. Please do not let this event go forward. PLEASE in good conscious, do not let this torture happen…..
Helen Washburn
Brookeville, Maryland
639 days ago
0
I have not enough words to explain my horror and my disgust!
639 days ago
0
In the state of Indiana, this activity is a crime.
According to Indiana penal code 35-46-3-12, “Torture or mutilation of a vertebrate animal”:
(b) “A person who knowingly or intentionally beats a vertebrate animal commits cruelty to an animal, a Class A misdemeanor.”
and
(c) “A person who knowingly or intentionally tortures or mutilates a vertebrate animal commits torturing or mutilating a vertebrate animal, a Class D felony.”
The person convicted of a Class A misdemeanor faces up to 1 year imprisonment and a $5,000 fine (Indiana penal code 35-50-3-2). A person convicted of a Class D felony faces up to 3 years imprisonment and a $10,000 fine (Indiana penal code 35-50-2-7).
To review the criminal code, please go to: http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title35/ar46/ch3.html
639 days ago
0
I just called the Ohio County Sheriff’s Department (http://www.usacops.com/in/s47040/index.html) at 812-438-3636 and a man answered and I said, “I would like to report a violation of the Indiana penal code that is currently being planned for tomorrow in your jurisdiction.”
He asked what code. I said, “Indiana penal code 35-46-3-12.”
He asked me to hold and transferred me to some woman. I said repeated my first statement and she said, “We are aware of it.”
I said, “What are you referring to?”
She said,” What are YOU referring to?”
I said, “Snapperfest.”
She said, “Yes, we are taking many calls about it.”
I said, “I have the penal code in front of me here if you would like me to let you know exactly what laws are likely to be broken tomorrow.”
She said, “We’re taking a lot of calls about this and I can’t speak about it anymore.”
Then she hung up.
So, please call them with this script.
Sheriff
Eldon Fancher
123 S Mulberry St
Rising Sun, Indiana 47040
Phone: (812)438-3636
Fax: (812)438-4848
639 days ago
0
Also, the CBS News affiliate that covers Ohio County, Indiana, is WKRC Local 12, based in Cincinnati.
I just talked to someone at their Breaking News Tip Line at 513-579-1212 and said I would like to give you a news tip of a planned illegal activity tomorrow. She said to email the details to local12@local.com.
This could be a good email to contact with requests to cover the event.
639 days ago
0
Got an email from Bryan K. Fields, Aurora Chief of Police. He wrote:
“As I have received numerous complaints via email regarding “Snapperfest” held at Campshore in Ohio County, Indiana, I felt compelled to educate the public that this event is not held within the City of Aurora and falls outside of the jurisdiction of the Aurora Police Department. Although the venue takes place at a location that has an Aurora address, it does not occur in Aurora, or even in Dearborn County, which is where we are located. Correspondence should be addressed to the Ohio County Sheriff’s Department, Indiana State Police, or the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. We appreciate your concerns, but we have no control over this event.”
Bryan H. Fields
Chief of Police
Aurora Police Department
233 Main Street
Aurora, IN 47001
P: 812-926-1101
F: 812-926-0713
So I called Indiana State Police, Versailles District 42, which has jurisdiction over Ohio County. The trooper I talked to said I was the 10th person calling about Snapperfest. He said that all calls should go to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), District 9 at 812-689-4370. http://www.in.gov/dnr/lawenfor/2755.htm
I asked him if the State Police Versailles District 42 had jurisdiction over Ohio County. He said yes, but no crime has been committed. I alerted him to the fact that, while the event hasn’t yet happened, the planned torture of turtles is a violation of Indiana penal code 35-46-3-12, “Torture or mutilation of a vertebrate animal.” He repeated that no crime has been committed.
It’s clear that they are not taking a proactive stance in this case.
So, if anyone does attend Snapperfest tomorrow and witnesses the torture of turtles, they should take video (best option) or photos (next best option) and try to get names and faces of the criminals.
Then they should call the Indiana State Police Versailles District 42 ASAP at 1-812-689-5000 or 1-800-566-6704 and also Ohio County Sheriff Eldon Fancher at 812-438-3636 to report the crime.
Note the penal code number 35-46-3-12 that is being violated.
639 days ago
0
I find it so appalling how little people care. The whole “it’s not our jurisdiction so not our problem” attitude sickens me. If it was puppies being slammed to the ground, would they act the same way? Or children? Grow up and do something about an act you know is morally wrong because it is wrong, not because it’s “under you jurisdiction”. Cowards and fools.
639 days ago
0
to: Indiana Department of Natural Resources
subject Urgent: Planned Violation of Indiana Criminal Code 35-46-3-12, Ohio County, Saturday, August 20
Dear Indiana Department of Natural Resources:
I am writing you today at the recommendation of both the Indiana State Police Criminal Investigation Division Versailles District #42 and Aurora Police Chief Bryan K. Fields to alert you about possible illegal activity involving the abuse of Indiana state wildlife that is currently scheduled for tomorrow, Saturday, August 20, at Campshore Campground in Ohio Country, Indiana.
The law that may be violated is Indiana penal code 35-46-3-12.
http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title35/ar46/ch3.html
In this event, known as “Snapperfest,” which is scheduled for tomorrow at the Campshore Campground (8546 State Route 56, Aurora, Indiana, campshorecampground.com), wild-caught snapping turtles are tortured. The animals are grabbed by their tails and repeatedly slammed to the ground. Their heads are yanked from their shells, and they are then swung around until “contestants” are able to wrap their fists around the animals’ necks.
As I am sure you are aware, in the state of Indiana, this activity is a crime.
According to Indiana penal code 35-46-3-12, “Torture or mutilation of a vertebrate animal”:
(b) “A person who knowingly or intentionally beats a vertebrate animal commits cruelty to an animal, a Class A misdemeanor.”
and
(c) “A person who knowingly or intentionally tortures or mutilates a vertebrate animal commits torturing or mutilating a vertebrate animal, a Class D felony.”
The person convicted of a Class A misdemeanor faces up to 1 year imprisonment and a $5,000 fine (Indiana penal code 35-50-3-2). A person convicted of a Class D felony faces up to 3 years imprisonment and a $10,000 fine (Indiana penal code 35-50-2-7).
To review the criminal code, please go to: http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title35/ar46/ch3.html
I have spoken with Leticia at the DNR Conservation Officers District 9 Office (812-689-4370) and she said that no turtles will be harmed. However, if you review the video footage of the 13th Annual Snapperfest, I am sure that you will agree that torture is clearly occurring:
http://www.peta2.com/2011/08/urgent-turtle-torture-event-scheduled.html
Wildlife biologist D.J. Schubert of the Animal Welfare Insititute (AWI) has confirmed that “that the activities at ‘Snapperfest’ clearly violate the cruelty code.”
Additionally, the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) lists the Alligator snapping turtle as a threatened species, and as of June 14, 2006, it was afforded international protection by being listed as a CITES 3 species by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), a multilateral treaty, drafted as a result of a resolution adopted in 1963 at a meeting of members of the IUCN. For more on this, please see: http://biodiversity.mongabay.com/animals/m/Macroclemys_temminckii.html.
Since the campground is located in Aurora, I emailed Aurora Police Chief Bryan K. Fields, who kindly replied with the following:
“Thank you for your email. This event falls outside of the jurisdictional boundries of the City of Aurora and the Aurora Police Department. Although the event location has an Aurora address, it is not even held in Dearborn County, which is where we are located. We have no control over this event. Your concerns should be addressed to the Ohio County Sheriff’s Department or Indiana Department of Natural Resources.”
I called the Ohio County Sheriff’s Department, but when I told the woman who answered the phone about the possible violation of Indiana state law at Snapperfest, she simply replied, “We are taking many calls about it,” and then hung up on me.
WKRC Local 12 News and other local media have been alerted about this event, which is now receiving attention on a national level. On several counts — including Indiana state law, international convention and basic ethical behavior — the torture of turtles at Snapperfest should be banned.
I urge you to defend Indiana state law and prevent any animal abuse from happening at Snapperfest.
Thank you very much for your time and your kind consideration in this matter.
Sincerely,
636 days ago
0
from DFW DFW@dnr.in.gov
date Fri, Aug 19, 2011 at 6:18 PM
subject RE: Comments – Snapperfest
Thank you for contacting the State of Indiana about this. DNR Law enforcement has investigated this matter. If they use legal methods to take the snapping turtles from the wild, have a hunting/fishing license to take them, stay within the bag limit/possession limit, and don’t sell the turtles, there isn’t a violation of the law. Animal cruelty laws do not apply because IC 35-46-3-5 provides an exemption for hunting, fishing, trapping and other activities authorized under IC 14-22. There are no laws that specify how a snapping turtle has to be killed when taken from the wild. If you have additional questions, please contact Law Enforcement District #9 at 812-689-4370.
DFW
639 days ago
0
Every day I hear about new terrible methods, that people think of for torment other beings, who often have no voice to scream…
It lacks one of the words.
Please stop this senseless torture them even if we do not hear the turtles cry
639 days ago
0
Can PETA mobilize people to do an actual protest here?
639 days ago
0
I REFUSE TO WATCH THIS VIDEO!!! The title alone makes me cringe, STOP the ABUSE of animals – ALL animals now!!!!!!!
639 days ago
0
I did email all on the list but it’s good to know there really is legal protection….that seems to be the only way to even begin to stop this type of thing. Hopefully the police will follow through.
639 days ago
0
Having just read that Alligator Snapping Turtles are an Endangered species in Indiana, it is FEDERALLY protected. IDNR needs to be brought into the fold…. would someone please contact them? Indiana Department of Natural Resources,
http://www.in.gov/dnr/3246.htm
Thank you
637 days ago
0
Snapping turtles are not “federally” protected. DNR has investigated this, and no laws are being broken so long as participants are permitted and abide by take limits.
636 days ago
0
Email sent to DNR.
639 days ago
0
It’s hard to send polite comments to this savages. How can you politely ask someone to stop torturing innocent animals?
639 days ago
0
please stop the torture to these turtles!!! They feel everything!!!! They are harmless and this is very sick and cruel behavior and anyone who partakes in this needs to be punished by the law!!!!
639 days ago
0
The participants in this event deserve to be swung by their necks. Disgusting!
639 days ago
0
I hope your calls lead to success Melinda. I can’t believe that this is allowed, nor that people whoop and show their support. What an idiot that guy looked strutting around after grabbing a creature a fraction of his size. He needs treatment and any place that allows this needs condemning.
639 days ago
0
let’s make a difference here! sign the petition people! http://www.change.org/petitions/petition-stop-torturing-and-killing-little-turtles-for-entertainment
639 days ago
0
omg im in shock like wtf my friend is veiwing this right now adn she is like wtf y r they chearingour mouths cant close we r pist off u r very sick
639 days ago
0
This is horrid! I encourage all PETA members that live nearby that town to protest and those that dont to call or email them
639 days ago
0
Hello everybody! Here is a copy of the mails I sent:
Dear Sirs,
I wish to complain in the strongest possible terms about the Snapperfest which will take place Saturday August 20 at the Campshore Campground, Ohio County, Indiana, & draw your attention to the following;
Indiana law stipulates:
A person having a vertebrate animal in the person’s custody who recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally abandons or neglects the animal commits cruelty to an animal, a Class B misdemeanor. A person who knowingly or intentionally purchases or possesses an animal for the purpose of using the animal in an animal fighting contest commits a Class A misdemeanor.
However, a person who knowingly or intentionally promotes or stages an animal fighting contest, uses an animal in a fighting contest, or attends an animal fighting contest having an animal in the person’s possession commits a Class D felony.
Further, a person who knowingly or intentionally beats a vertebrate animal commits cruelty to an animal, a Class A misdemeanor. However, the offense is a Class D felony if the person has a previous, unrelated conviction under this section or the person knowingly or intentionally tortures or mutilates a vertebrate animal.
A turtle is considered to be a vertebrate animal with a unique skeleton. This means that a turtle’s shell is more than an outer covering, it is an integral part of the animal’s body. As the turtle develops inside the egg its shoulder blade remains inside the rib cage. During the turtle’s early embryology when its skeleton is forming, the shoulder blade and the ribs become part of the shell..
Please put a stop to this barbarous event now!
Yours fervently,
Aurélie Kuhn
639 days ago
0
How sick!!!
639 days ago
0
stop stop!!!!
639 days ago
0
I read the report but honestly thought it was BS. sounded to awful to be true so I watched some of the clip… I couldn’t watch it all and really wish I could under what I saw! DISGUSTING!!!! END IT! NOW!!!!!
639 days ago
0
Our Lord Jesus Christ and His Chruch commands to us to be merciful to all living beings nor injure them in any manner whatever,this is inclusive of the environment.
May all living beings happily and peacefully attain Salvation.
Yours in the Truth,
Sunil & Catherine
639 days ago
0
gross just disturbing I have nothing… I mean I cant even say anything about this!
639 days ago
0
People are sooooooooooooooo stupid and bad, it is unbelievable, how would they feel, if somebody come up to them and do the same thing. It is nasty just to look at it.
639 days ago
0
Wow…..what a big, strong, brave man….he must be so proud of himself!! And as for the cheering crowd….shameful!!! What a backward, moronic & cruel “sport”…..shame on you all, particularly the authorities who allow this event!!
639 days ago
0
That was just terrible to look at. Have they no remorse or i don’t know, i have no words. Hurting defenseless animals – how does one do that. They should get same sen tens as murderers. They are part of God’s creation.
639 days ago
0
This is fucking sick and these people deserve to be castrated to prevent further abominations of this breed of human. Evil is too soft a word for them. And all this in the Land of the Free, home of the Brave. What a sick fucking joke that is. Land of the criminally insane that this is allowed to go on without punishment.
639 days ago
0
I meant “I cannot believe that this sort of ‘Redneck’ entertainment is still practised in this day and age by a country that is considered a global leader!
What a feeling it must be to prove that you are stronger than a turtle more than 20 times smaller than yourself!
Maybe it’s not about strength but equal brain sized opponents! duh!”
638 days ago
0
The turtles are definitely smarter!
638 days ago
0
I just sent this email to all of them
Dear Council members
How do you all sleep at night, look at yourselves in the mirror or look at your families while you let this behavior go on? As a Travel consultant I promise I will never recommend your state for any tourism. I will , however, do my part to boycott your state as this is the same barbaric behavior that is no better than middle east killings. For you all to allow this makes you the same as those inhumane “people” of Iraq. This is the United States we are suppose to act in a way for our children to be proud and look up to us. Do you really think this is what we are about??
You make me sick! All of you
I have no respect for you or your pathetic community made of cowards and bullies torturing defenseless turtles or any other animal.
637 days ago
0
hardly! You wouldn’t see a turtle doing something this stupid, sick and cruel, clearly there is no contest!
639 days ago
0
Hey!
So I sent an e-mail to everyone on the list, and one of the contacts (Lynn Graves) had the mail returned to me because their inbox was too full! I like to think that it was us.
639 days ago
0
OMG this is disgusting and these people should be locked up. The things we have to fight for are becoming sicker and sicker with each day why humans just be decent I HATE THESE LOSERS
639 days ago
0
e-mailed em all with a nice long, civilized email (:
639 days ago
0
You guys can copy the email that I just sent.
To whom it may concern.
I am writing this email to protest about the horrifying event called “Snapperfest” that takes place in Indiana, Ohio County. After watching the video, I couldn’t believe that this still happens in 21st century. These turtles are helpless creatures that should not be treated this way for the amusement and fun of others.
Please consider to do the right thing to replace this cruel event.
Sincerely,
YOU NAME
639 days ago
0
oh my god.. this is sick. what kind of humans can do this?
i just emailed the campgrounds also
639 days ago
0
Disgusting…..I am in tears even at the thought of it. I love snapping turtles…=[ I will definitely be emailing as many as I can. Id like to try to get my fist around that guys neck….I wonder if people would agree THAT was wrong.
639 days ago
0
I’ll tell you what, I’ll be polite in my emails to those who are refusing to stop this barbaric behavior, when these individuals grow a brain and get a pair.
If you need to be told this event is disgusting to the highest level, then you are just as bad as those who participate.
639 days ago
0
http://campshorecampground.com/files/kurt_s-pix-09-121.jpg I got this picture from the campground website. It looks as though they are doing something. If you look closely, some of the people don’t seem too happy. But, so many of them seem into it. That is terrifying and disgusting! This is an annual event?
639 days ago
0
looks like a bunch of ignorant rednecks.
639 days ago
0
As a lover of all animals, I am disgusted by this event. How does this happen and why does this happen? It proves nothing, is not entertaining in the least and is simply repulsive. I cannot believe this actually is an event that people go to for human gratification. It is news like this that confirms that most of the human population is extremely ignorant and non-compassionate.
639 days ago
0
just sent emails to all of them. The only one that didnt go through was rpowell@orvcomm.com I hope they get the message and listen to them. this is absolutely horrible! Go PETYA MEMBERS!!!! TOGETHER WE CAN STOP THIS CRUELTY!!!
639 days ago
0
I live kinda near this spectacle and will actively call everyone that I can to stop this…remember, we are dealing with drunks and idiots…I can’t reason with either, but I can be loud and vocal and try to SHAME them. I can try to get TV news coverage and get some morons on camera and have their names run thru a criminal data base….also, drugs will be there and try to get police to arrest some. It is a MOB mentality that we are dealing with. I am not afraid and can be alone with these people…if I have to I will hire two burly, big guys to protect me. I live in southern Ohio and am ashamed that this brutality is near me in Indiana. WE DO NOT act like this…I am baffled…SORRY for the turtle torture here in the mid-west…WE WILL STOP THIS disgusting practice or I will be arrested…
639 days ago
0
Amber can you or someone attending pose as a spectator (at least at first) to get photos and video of the actual event?
639 days ago
0
Amber,
That is awesome if you can go there. I know it could be hard, but any photo or video documentation would help prosecutors if they end up prosecuting. Also, it would be helpful for you to be armed with the law:
According to Indiana penal code 35-46-3-12, “Torture or mutilation of a vertebrate animal”:
(b) “A person who knowingly or intentionally beats a vertebrate animal commits cruelty to an animal, a Class A misdemeanor.”
and
(c) “A person who knowingly or intentionally tortures or mutilates a vertebrate animal commits torturing or mutilating a vertebrate animal, a Class D felony.”
The person convicted of a Class A misdemeanor faces up to 1 year imprisonment and a $5,000 fine (Indiana penal code 35-50-3-2). A person convicted of a Class D felony faces up to 3 years imprisonment and a $10,000 fine (Indiana penal code 35-50-2-7).
Since turtles are vertebrates (i.e., they have vertebrae/backbones), they are protected under Indiana state law.
To review the criminal code, please go to: http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title35/ar46/ch3.html
Good luck.
639 days ago
0
I think if there is a scene, they will have to break up the event.
639 days ago
0
YOU GUYS RULE IF YOU CAN GET THESE STUPID INBRED HICKS TO STOP THIS EVENT. GO PETA!!
639 days ago
0
THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR HELP FOR THOSE TURTLES, THIS CRUEL ” GAME ” HAS TO STOP , IN MEXICO WE ARE ALSO DEALING WITH A LOT OF HUMAN CRUELTY EVERY DAY
( GOD BLESS YOU AMBER AND PLEASE DO SOMETHING TO STOP THIS !!
638 days ago
0
awesome.. good for you you are now my hero
639 days ago
0
Contact Campshore Campground:
http://www.campshorecampground.com/contact_us.html
639 days ago
0
i live in oklahoma. and i found a baby snapper lost on campus. i took it to the science dept. and a prof. told me that they are becoming an endangered spicies.so we took it back to a big pond and let him go.after of course he was examined and givin a clean bill o’ health by our zoology prof. i have allways loved all turtles. some specis we dont even know how long they can live. you have to respect a creature whom can outlive you.
639 days ago
0
This is PRECISELY why cruelty toward animals and humans abound in our
world. PRECISELY. How could they not see this? Look at all of those mothers and their children? How can they possibly be so oblivious to this? These are the same kind of people who beat, maim, torture, and kill humans (and of course, animals) because they don’t “look right”, “belong”, “are too different”, etc. This must stop and stop NOW!
These are the same type of people who have no respect for other religions, cultures, and races, yet have the AUDACITY to engage in some real subhuman, cruel behavior. This is the 21st century, and as supposed members of the supposed “Superior Species”, they must think of other ways to enjoy themselves. Truly, what kind of people find hurting living beings fun?? They need to ask themselves that question.
639 days ago
0
this video made me cry D: its not fair just because they cant talk doesn’t mean animals don’t got feelings
639 days ago
0
Disgusting….Why in the hell isnt this animal abuse?
I sent an email to the campground.
639 days ago
0
This is so sick!
639 days ago
0
I can never bring myself to watch this kind of torture.I don’t know how it can be in someone’s soul to hurt and abuse a fellow inhabitant of our planet. Show me how tough you are and jump in the water with a Great White Shark and we’ll see how that comes out. You cowards.
639 days ago
0
Can’t watch the video, can send emails!
639 days ago
0
When a scientific report was published in June relating the higher incidents of birth defects in West Virginia to mountain top mining and the toxins released by this practice, the coal executives said the study was flawed because it failed to consider “consanguinity” in the population. The word basically means inbreeding. (Their use of this fancy word probably caused more stir than if they had just come out and used the word “inbreeding.”)
Rather than disparage the lives of the victims of mountain top removal, I can’t think of a better word to describe the underlying cause of these subhumans’ behavior.
639 days ago
0
This is the email of their animal control officer of indiana
ocasdogs@embarqmail.com
639 days ago
0
I’m pretty sure if I watch the video I may in fact feel the need to go freak out on anyone who participates in this. Sick sick sick.
639 days ago
0
I have now emailed my entire friends list, as well as every senator of indiana, multiple times. here are there emails if anyone else wants to write them.
sd04@senate.state.oh.us; sd11@maild.sen.state.oh.us; sd01@senate.state.oh.us; sd02@senate.state.oh.us; sd03@senate.state.oh.us; sd05@senate.state.oh.us; sd06@senate.state.oh.us; sd07@senate.state.oh.us; sd08@senate.state.oh.us; sd09@maild.sen.state.oh.us; sd10@senate.state.oh.us; sd12@senate.state.oh.us; sd13@senate.state.oh.us; sd14@senate.state.oh.us; sd15@maild.sen.state.oh.us; sd16@senate.state.oh.us; sd17@senate.state.oh.us; sd18@senate.state.oh.us; sd21@maild.sen.state.oh.us; sd19@senate.state.oh.us; sd22@senate.state.oh.us; sd23@maild.sen.state.oh.us; sd24@senate.state.oh.us; sd27@senate.state.oh.us; sd26@senate.state.oh.us; sd25@maild.sen.state.oh.us; sd30@maild.sen.state.oh.us; sd29@senate.state.oh.us; sd28@maild.sen.state.oh.us; sd31@senate.state.oh.us; sd32@maild.sen.state.oh.us; sd33@maild.sen.state.oh.us
There are a lot.
639 days ago
0
i can’t watch the video i am e-mailing them!
639 days ago
0
This video is absolutely disgusting. I have emailed every possible source i can think of so far. I hope this is stopped, and cannot understand how this cruelty is allowed in the united states!!!!!
639 days ago
0
Only one solution
639 days ago
0
This is disgusting, these turtles, like all other animals, are innocent and feel pain and suffering!!
639 days ago
0
WTF!!! why would you ever do this how is it fun. just pretend u where the snapper howd you feel if some one did this to u =. i am sickened they will deff hear from me!
639 days ago
0
My home state where I grew up is Indiana and I feel nothing but disgust and shame right now.
639 days ago
0
sick,ignorant,stupid,low life people trying to be big and bad by harming turtles?????? what the heck has our world come to? when will the torture of animals STOP?!? they can’t defend theirselves, their turtles…
639 days ago
0
OMFG! the people in Ohio county must be a pack of backward, red neck fuckwitts to be involved in something so vile and their council allows this to go on, un-freakin-believable someone needs to kick the crap out of these barbarians no shity!
639 days ago
0
This is just horrible.
The sad thing is that they all seems to enjoy themselves even the kids. I would hope that people try to educate their children to respect all kind of life forms. To see adults doing such a horrible thing for sport is really depressing and should be illegal with jail time for the people participating and organizing the event
639 days ago
0
After watching this I’m not going to stay here and let this happen again. We all need to do something to stop this cruel event against Turtles. How can the cheer up this even knowing that it’s so cruel and mean to treat an animal like that.
I’m from Virginia and if the only way to stop this it’s going to Indiana and talk to this people, I have no problem going there at all.
God help us because there is no other way the world can change….
639 days ago
0
I live not too terribly far from Ohio County. Is anyone getting a group together to go there and make sure nothing at least TRY to make sure nothing happens to the turtles? If so i will join, just let me know when.
639 days ago
0
WTF is wrong with all those people… sick twisted cruel morons the lot of them. This is an ‘event’ ???? which means its happened before and will happen again…
Thats just beyond all things barbaric!
639 days ago
0
I am so disgusted…how anyone ever even had the notion to attempt something like this is beyond me.
That anyone felt such a sense of accomplishment that they created an event to glorify it sickens me.
639 days ago
0
This is disgusting, I’ll be sure to contact all the addressed to try and stop this.
639 days ago
0
http://indianasheriffs.org/ns/counties/Ohio.php Ohio County Sheriff.
I want to know how they can let this atrocity go on and not enforce animal cruelty laws. If these are wild turtles and I assume they are, doesn’t the Indiana DNR have any opinion on such ridiculous cruelty?
639 days ago
0
Thank you so much Melinda 244. This must be stopped no. I am emailing all the officials. This is a disgrace.
639 days ago
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What would I write in the Subject Box so they dont just delet it without reading it first?
639 days ago
0
This one made me sick to the core. I’ve shared this on Facebook and Twitter, and I’ve sent this link to my friends and family, who have agreed to spread the word. I’m going to broadcast this message on BBM later in the day too. Some of us (including me) have already emailed every single person on the list mentioned above. I REALLY REALLY hope we can stop this sadistic practice! Let me know if I can be of any more help
639 days ago
0
This is sick!! Please help stop this!!! What is wrong with these people!
639 days ago
0
This is so stupid, sick and wrong!
WTF is wrong with people these days?
639 days ago
0
DON’T STOP CALLING/EMAILING/MAKING NOISE!!! THIS HAS TO STOP NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!
639 days ago
0
It seems impossible for morons to organize festivities without torturing or killing animals. Disgusting and cruel! Stop it now!
639 days ago
0
They are doing this in front of children which constitutes CHILD ABUSE (mental cruelty)- at a campground. It’s SICK! Please sign/share Petition
http://www.change.org/petitions/petition-stop-torturing-and-killing-little-turtles-for-entertainment
639 days ago
0
THANKS, LUKE. I plan on going unless I get some good answers from sheriff and county commissioners…hope that these people go to work on Friday.
639 days ago
0
SIGN HERE! SIGN NOW! AND PLEASE SHARE!
http://www.change.org/petitions/petition-stop-torturing-and-killing-little-turtles-for-entertainment
639 days ago
0
I signed, and got a few more friends to sign and get their friends to sign
637 days ago
0
I would urge you to put your efforts instead toward continual pressure on the campground and the county officials through calls and emails. They are the ones that can be persuaded to stop this and persuaded that it looks bad for new county residents or business opportunity. A detached online petition is not going to have much effect on them.
639 days ago
0
I cannot see this, is horrible.
639 days ago
0
The campground feels very “harassed” by our calls, in response to which I inquired, do you feel that turtles feel “harassed” by having their heads yanked out of their bodies. KEEP UP THE CALLS.
639 days ago
0
omg i have no words i couldent even watch it anymore when the guy got the turtle i stoped the video tis is so sick those ppl are deamons
639 days ago
0
Sending an email to all the public figures and municipal officers I can. More contacts here, including mayor, police chief, tourism director, and more.
http://www.cityofrisingsun.com/Contact.aspx
639 days ago
0
thank you sent and sent!!!
639 days ago
0
Event isn’t in Rising Sun…It is in Ohio County, therefore city officials have no jurisdiction.
Woody
639 days ago
0
What the hell? What is wrong with people that want to hurt, torture and kill innocent animals. These turtles should be able to live and die a natural death as nature intended. People must have been raised by phycos in the wilderness. They make me sick and mad. Hope something is done soon. Thank you guys that are trying so hard to stop this senseless killing.
639 days ago
0
Unfortunately, much of humanity is in a state of delay and bestiality hell!
I loathe and hate to see these scenes!
639 days ago
0
Omg what is wrong with those people! They should put their hands around those rednecks throats and swing them around to see what that feels like!
639 days ago
0
what a inbread hillbilly really tough guy picking on a turtle he should be in jail and anyone that supports this kind of crap this is not a sport its a crime and a sin
639 days ago
0
Oh my God…..we are in hell. This is it. Those are the damn demons.
639 days ago
0
this is beyond sick. those men who are having so much fun look like a link to the neanderthals. the bible says “whatever is done to the least of mine, is done to me” sleep well
639 days ago
0
OMG I just called the Koons guy. He actually talked to me which is a positive on his side but he could not definitely tell me it was “wrong” to do this to turtles because he hunts and traps them. Ugh. I asked him if he realizes how embarrassing this is to his state and that 98% of the people out there, Peta people or not,would feel this is wrong. I also told him that animals are not ours to torment for fun, there are plenty of other fun things for humans to do without harming animals. He blamed it on us being “sinners”> I said “did it ever occur to you that maybe God wants us to be better and not just to blame everything on being sinners? OMG what a conversation…
639 days ago
0
I have sent e-mails to all of the above listed officials. Please – if you are taking the time to leave comments on this message board, take the time to send e-mails as well. If everybody here sends an e-mail, we will have power in numbers. If you don’t know where to start, just google “sample protest letter”
639 days ago
0
How horrible I cannot believe people could even stand to go to that event and watch.
639 days ago
0
This is probably the only “successes” in his life, i almost feel sorry for him. What a hard time he had as a child.
639 days ago
0
So I just got off the phone with the FBI Indiana, and while this doesn’t exactly fall under their jurisdiction, they are passing all the event information to the Indiana State Police as what they do at this event is illegal in Indiana. Also, the FBI agent recommended that I call the location of the event and let them know the event is on the radar of the State Police as well as the FBI, so I left a voicemail on the cell phone number. Hopefully we hear some good outcomes for these turtles.
639 days ago
0
Well done, I e-mailed the campground and filled out their online feedback form provided on their website and let them know that officials had been notified.
639 days ago
0
I just emailed the list on the webpage..I am in shock that they would ocnsider this torture..I always thought the humans were suppose to be the brighter ones..and then I see this and it just made me cry..how cruel can you be..they looked like abunch of dumb hillbillies that don’t know what to do for entertainment! I am ashamed that this is still acceptable in the USA!
639 days ago
0
And the arrogant continue to be ignorant and condescending, because we’re all right, 100% of the time.
639 days ago
0
Awesome work,Melinda244!!! You go,girl! Between our many emails to those on the list and your quick thinking, perhaps there’s a chance for the poor Snappers this year. These imbeciles should know that they are now on the radar of some folks that can do something about this brutal travesty! Thank You!
639 days ago
0
Melinda you are awesome and a true hero! And to think… you can be saving live creatures! I hope you feel good. I didn’t go as far as you did with this whole thing, but every little bit helps and i’m grateful that SOME people in this world have a heart like yours.
Thank you!!! and the turtles thank you too!!!
639 days ago
0
Way 2 go mel! I hope with endless emails and phonecalls + the cops will stop this atrocious event
639 days ago
0
It breaks my heart just to think about hurting animals, so i have decided not to watch the video. These useless wastes of oxygen should be severely punished, and a case should be made against them. How cruel can people be?
It is absolutely unacceptable to allow this to happen, authorities should have jumped on this event the moment it was brought to light, not wait for a few hundred more complaints. It is clear as day that this is cruelty toward animals.
639 days ago
0
Melinda, thank you SO MUCH!!!
637 days ago
0
Actually the FBI or the state police in Indiana would not be the authority to tell you if it were illegal, because they don’t enforce that sort of thing. This has been investigated by game officials before, and they have stated that it is not illegal. The method in which the animals are treated or killed is not a concern of theirs. The only legal issues are whether the participants have proper hunting permits, are obeying take limits, and are not harming protected species. Other than that, there is nothing they can do. The only thing that will stop this, is constant pressure on the county officials, who may realize that this makes their county look bad for new residents or businesses.
639 days ago
0
After reading the comments, I decided that I didn’t even want to watch the video. How sick the world has become. Nothing like picking a small, slow moving, defenseless creature to make them feel so powerful. They should try this w/ something that can fight back, like a lion or tiger, then see who has the last laugh!!!
639 days ago
0
OMG
639 days ago
0
WTH is wrong with people!!!!!! Innocent creatures DO NOT deserve this!!!! To have people cheering for this is just disgusting!!!!! My heart aches for these turtles!
639 days ago
0
This made me physically ill. How are there people out there that find this acceptable? I’m just speechless as to how people can be so cruel.
639 days ago
0
Are there no limits as to what people will do to have “fun”?
This it outrageous! Stop it!
639 days ago
0
Stop this!!!
639 days ago
0
OMG, Ohio must be a horrible place… I see so many people in this video, can’t we shoot a firehose at them to stop this cruel event. Just surprice them!
639 days ago
0
When people are cruel to any defenseless animal, there is a special place in hell where they will spend eternity
639 days ago
0
Torture is never entertainment. If this was being done to cute little puppies people would be horrified. This is no less horrific just because it’s turtles. This is not an event it is a cruel barbaric torture fiest. Anyone that condones this is sick.
639 days ago
0
I live in Belgium, Europe, and I’ve send them an email.
639 days ago
0
i have written to all now..
How can there be SO many people watching?? Are all the people brainwashed or what..?
639 days ago
0
I’m so damn ashamed to call myself a hoosier now. I’ve just learned about this despicable event and it’s sickening. These people are obviously bored, poverty-striken, hill billies, who don’t have anything better to do with their pathetic lives.
639 days ago
0
Please Please don’t do this it is so mean and cruel. I think how ever participates in this should have the same done to them!!!!!!!!!!!
640 days ago
0
ok im not gonna watch this coz i know i cant handle it. im emailing… when is all madness gonna stop….
640 days ago
0
I wouldn’t be able to write a “polite” comment regarding this, and to read that complaints have been met with such BS as “the animals were not being mistreated in any way” is beyond comprehension! Perhaps these morons should be grabbed by their necks and swung around, see how they like it! I truely hope some of the snappers at least get a bite or two in. Absolute disgrace, makes me ashamed to be a part of the same species.
640 days ago
0
ONLY BARBARIC, BRAIN DEAD IDIOTS would participate in any way with this inhumane ‘event’. And that goes for anyone who endorses it in any way.
640 days ago
0
Wow! Every one of these people should burn in hell for destroying gods creatures for nothing other than “sport”. I hope one of you heartless bastards are reading this cause this is beyond wrong.
640 days ago
0
who in the world would what to even do that anyways? i can’t believe how mean people can be
640 days ago
0
I see this is the 13th. annual such event; it’s not as though the perpetrators can even claim it as some kind of tradition.
If this cruelty to defenceless animals is their way of demonstrating their machismo, perhaps it would be a good idea to send ALL the residents of Ohio County, Indiana, to Helmand province and put them up against an enemy that shares their cowardice — the Taaliban.
ΠΞ
640 days ago
0
Couldn’t watch this clip to the end. How can this be allowed to happen and how can humans possibly go and watch something as awful as this and think it’s fun? This makes me feel ashamed of being human.
640 days ago
0
This is one of the most vile things I’ve seen! Isn’t there anything better for the people of Ohio to do with their time? What on earth is this teaching their children?
640 days ago
0
that is extremely messed. >:(
640 days ago
0
Please, I would like to use the letter written by one of you guys to send it. French is my first language and I am not used to writing a “formal” english.
Thanks in advance!
637 days ago
0
Your write well enough. It is better if it is in your own words. Multiple letters worded the same do not have as much effect.
640 days ago
0
Honestly, how are you supposed to have any faith in humanity when stuff like this happens. I am going to keep fighting for animals but I have given up on humans. We are a violent, heartless, disgusting species and deserve every bad thing that happens to us.
640 days ago
0
Please someone start a petition. This is crude, violent and disgusting.
640 days ago
0
I suggest you tell the campground and the officials that Snapperfest is not that different from dogfighting: both cause harm to animals for the sake of public amusement!!
640 days ago
0
STOP this cruel!!!! this is sick!
640 days ago
0
U NEED TO STOP THIS EVGENT AND i CANT BELIEVE THAT THERE ARE STUPID PEOPLE THERE TO WATCH THIS CRUELTY- PLEASE STOP THIS HORRIFFIC EVENT-DID ANY ONE EVER THINK THAT IN THEIR NEXT LIFE THEY MAY BE THESE TURTLES THAT LET THIS GO ON-THIS IS SICK- AND THE PEOPLE THAT GO SICK TO
640 days ago
0
This makes me want to vomit
640 days ago
0
What a horrible excuse for a family fun event. How about those guys wrestle one another than those poor turtles. I’m thoroughly disgusted.
640 days ago
0
I rarely post a comment but i have to on this..
I am crying right now…who is that heartless to do that to an innocent creature. Everybody can see that that is just mean and cruel. People think it is fun but they do not look at it from the point of veiw of a scared turtle. It really wazzes me off to think that people find that fun..i really think that crosses the line of animal abuse laws. Something needs to be done about this..and quickly.
640 days ago
0
Calling now, getting an answering machine. WIll email.
640 days ago
0
I live in England, and I’m proud to say most of our blood sports have been abolished. It’s about time America did the same. I wonder how many people felt like I did while watching the video, I want to grab the “contestant” by the neck – Did anyone hear SNAP!
640 days ago
0
Cuanto sadismooooo. del humano, esperemos todo y más… Basta de tortura y muerte a los inocentes animales. Envío mails, y difundo la noticia, hay que detener ésto ya!!!!
640 days ago
0
This is complete and utterly disgusting, I was literally becoming sick to my stomach and I didn’t even watch the whole thing. Some people just can’t seem to comprehend the fact that animals lives are equal to a human being. Hell possibly even more, seeing as the way humans are sprialing down a shit hole of a world.
Obviously people in that town dont understand what animal cruetly means. To them I suppose it’s all fun and games, which is a pity.
640 days ago
0
You have got to be kidding me and this is fun why???
Please please stop this. This is so terribly inhuman. You cannot be called a human at any cost if you do these activities. How can you inflict so much pain on an innocent animal. This video made me cry literally after seeing those poor creatures being harrased. God did not make these creatures for you to infick pain and kill for fun. you are really back woods if you think this is fun.
637 days ago
0
Do more than just post a comment if you are concerned. Send an email or make a phone call.
640 days ago
0
this is awful. that guy looked so proud. proud of what? hes a disgrace
640 days ago
0
DISGUSTING, SENT EMAILS.
640 days ago
0
this is sick cruel dont they have anything more constructive to do???? fuck!
640 days ago
0
How disheartening to see how popular an event this is, among the white trash set. That’s why inbreeding should be discouraged.
640 days ago
0
Really? They call this “fun”?? Look at that backwoods degenerate, all puffed up like he just did something heroic. Pfft. Whatever.
640 days ago
0
This is so cruel!!! Please stop this suffering!!
640 days ago
0
sitting here with my mouth open and crying… this is aweful.
640 days ago
0
I rarely have the excuse to say that I am sick to my stomach, however this is completely outrageous.
Emailing as we speak.
640 days ago
0
This is so messed up. Look how long these turtles have survived only to be killed like this. There is something wrong with all these people.
640 days ago
0
Hello, I just got a hold of Connie Smith. She did not know what this “Snapperfest” event is about and refused to answer any questions. She refered me back to PETA. What do you do? Where do you find the end of this string?
637 days ago
0
Who is Connie Smith?
640 days ago
0
Subcultures of sociopaths. Hunting, rodeo, and now this.
640 days ago
0
Who in God’s green earth would think this is a fun passtime?
Mental illness …..socially unacceptable! Where are the wildlife activists? Where is the event taking place?
Sometimes I am disgusted with humanity!
640 days ago
0
THIS IS CRUEL AND WRONG! It needs to be stopped now because it is disgusting.Me and my daughter are both Vegan and care for animals. We have sent emails to the email addresses above complaining and urging this to be stopped immediately. Please do the same and help stop this barbaric event now!
640 days ago
0
For many people torture is watching that “event”, how can anyone be a part of that??
640 days ago
0
WOW!!! i already posted a comment, but i had to do more research about this because it is just plain awful. i called the conservation office and the woman there said it had been investigated before, and it was found that the animals were not being mistreated in any way… i found that unbelievable, so i told her about the things i saw in this video, “turtles being slammed to the ground and having their heads pulled away from their shells…”. all she had to say was “well those videos on the internet aren’t always accurate.” i’m pretty sure this video was put up by someone in the crowd to show off this disgusting event to the whole world and it’s obviously real…….. i just don’t get… i really don’t. too too sad
640 days ago
0
I will spread the word far and wide (worldwide) to make it known that this kind of torture is happening… Ridiculous!!!
640 days ago
0
these people who are working this event are very disrespectful as are they stupid? I’ve tried calling all numbers. most inbox’s were full ( thanks guys:) ) then i finally got a hold of someone who works there.
i told them this “excuse me i was just wondering if this is the number i should be calling to ask about the
snapper fest held at campshore campground?”
and they were all likee yes may ask i who i am talking to?
and i was like this is zoe johnson
then he said his name which i fully didnt understand because he had an annoying accent.
and i asked him this.. “well my question is how can you be so cruel to a poor snapping turtle? do you
understand that this is inhumane and should be out lawed. Im asking you as politely as i can to replace this cruel event. I dont understand how this could possibly
be fun and im sure that you could find a more entertaining event that doesnt involve
torturing a deffenslise animal.”
he replys to me that they are not abused here, they are not killed.
then i asked him, “welll what do you do at this event then?”
he told me all about their “live band” and what not and that they do not have any events that involve hurting turtle
I told him that i have seen a video of it where this turtle is swung around by its throat. I do not understand how that isnt hurting a turtle?
he hangs up. beeotchhh.
640 days ago
0
That seriously makes me pissed! what an asshole! Thats really awful that poor little animal!
640 days ago
0
Emailed them all, and called the conservation officer for Ohio County. Got a receptionist who seemed to have received a few calls–she told me I could spell my last name for her “if you want” which indicated to me that she was not actually writing down my message. Not surprising. I told her that turtles are not toys and that this was in clear violation of Indiana animal cruelty law. Thank you for alerting us to this insanity.
640 days ago
0
I called the Campshore Campground and left a message.
640 days ago
0
Contact Ohio County Sheriff
Eldon Fancher
123 South Mulberry Street
Rising Sun , IN 47040
Telephone-812-438-3636
Fax-812-438-4848
640 days ago
0
Are you sure this is the right email address for Connie?
The Honorable Connie J. Brown
Ohio County Commissioner
yvonnewalton@hotmail.com
812-438-4624
640 days ago
0
Stop Torture Event. This is not fun
640 days ago
0
I thought God Created the earth,the animals had the best on Noahs Ark !!We need to have more kindness for all creatures , what a shame,shame,shame !!
640 days ago
0
Are you fucking serious? This is cruel. You people are sick. How would you like it if I threw you on the ground and ripped your head off? You wouldn’t. This isn’t even right. Go rot in hell.
640 days ago
0
The mail box of the camp ground is full so I was unable to leave a message. Thank you to everyone that has called so far!!
640 days ago
0
For those of you that are posting with them on the FB event page with this. Ask them what happens to the turtle if they bite one of the “contestants” I would be curious what the answer is but I live in the area and as you can tell, they are violent and I have children and can’t risk the retaliation living in the same town. I can tell you though the truth is that if one of the turtles bites a contestant, right there on the little square of carpet, in front of all the onlookers, including the small children….. they slit it’s throat or cut it’s head off in order to get the “contestant” loose. Leave the poor animal alone and it won’t bite you in defense of it’s wellbeing.
640 days ago
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Does anyone know of any animal lawyers?????
640 days ago
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GROSS
640 days ago
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i feel as though the world has gong to hell that something as barbaric cruel unspeakable could possibly happen.
Why are the authorities allowing this? Why would people want to participate to main kill pull out the heads slam the turtles to the ground repeatedly who does this why? to what end? who can possibly enjoy torturing helpless turtles? what the hell is going on can we stop it??? can we rush the crowd and stop it without getting arrested???? what can we do
640 days ago
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Who ever could think of such a thing to do????????
640 days ago
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I emailed the people that let this happen! I’m not even gonna attempt to watch the video. I’ll need therapy if I do!
640 days ago
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Emailed all the above. This has got to be some horrible joke. Surely to God, people don’t actually do this?????????
640 days ago
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Are there anymore email addresses we can send letters to? Congressmen? I am so sick over this and yes it does go against Indiana Animal Rights laws. I hope this does not continue.
640 days ago
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Jen one of the contacts suggested I contact the Sheriff Elden~ I left a message for him~ I believe he will take action. Just follow your Heart and you will get your answers and I am Grateful“
640 days ago
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desgraciados, malvados… cuánta impotencia de no poder detener tanta mierda humana… somos lo peor que habita y respira… Basta es Basta… joder!
640 days ago
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what the hell is this? how cruel can they be to these beautiful things.
640 days ago
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This is awful. I had an alligator snapper that we found in a 2 inch pond, that was drying up, and took home. He was only two inches in diameter, and puny. We fed him, kept him to get him for almost 3 years to get him up to a size where he could defend himself. The kids and I let him go this summer in the lake by our zoo, where he can live a long, happy life. If I ever knew anyone was doing this to my Oogway, I’d be in prison for what I did to them. I now have 2 pet sideneck turtles. This is just terrible.
Dixie M. Texas
640 days ago
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This is absolutely horrifying! Why would people waste their precious time TORTURING any living creature???!!!?? PLEASE STOP THIS!!!
640 days ago
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Real piece of work, these people are. A true definition of white trash if I ever saw one. Maybe kids next, huh? Why not the use the people that started this…yea that sounds good to me!!!
640 days ago
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~~ I just took action~~left a message with the Honorable Connie J. Brown ~~ must send the email to the Honorable Todd Walton~~ left a page of my phone # with Shane Koons~ a representative at The Honorable Connie Smith’s office took my message ~~ the campground’s phone # is busy & the cell #, there, I called hung up on me ~ it was suggested to call the Sheriff’s office, as the others really have no authority~ but, if the actions of the people are unjust towards my Brothers and my Sisters ~~such as, ” animals are grabbed by their tails and repeatedly slammed to the ground. Their heads are yanked from their shells, and they are then swung around until “contestants” are able to wrap their fists around the animals’ necks.” ~~ The Sheriff, “Elden has the authority to stop this event, in Gratitude,in Peace, With Love and Compassion~~
`
640 days ago
0
Custom will reconcile people to ANY atrocity! This one is barbaric and atrocious, borne of a Dark Ages mentality! Indiana MUST come into the 21st century with their thinking and their actions toward non-human beings. The WORLD is watching you, Indiana – you CAN and SHOULD do much, much better than this! Call this off and raise your I.Q. to a new standard.
640 days ago
0
I AM ASHAMED TO BE PART OF THE RACE THAT DOES THIS TO ANIMALS! IT IS TOTALLY BARBARIC!
G_D MADED ALL CREATURES, WHO ARE WE TO USE THEM IN SUCH A FASHION?
640 days ago
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i just send an email to all of them and a call to shane
…imma keeo it to today and tommorow and saturday hopefully
640 days ago
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They called themselves men and even worse they call themselves human, I would call them animals but it would be an insult to the animals, these people only attack and abuse defenceless creatures they would not be man enough to tackle someone the same size as themselves they are just barbaric cowards and there day will come.
640 days ago
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Emailed. This makes me sick. Couldn’t even watch the video… Once the “man” grabbed the turtle, I was done. Ugh.
640 days ago
0
Horrible…
640 days ago
0
Signed, sent letters, posted:
http://ourcompass.wordpress.com/2011/08/18/indiana-snapperfest-extreme-cruelty-to-turtles-one-petition-one-sample-letter/
640 days ago
0
Emails sent, calls being made.
640 days ago
0
wtf are all those people just watching that shit for. i think everyone in that crowd should be slammed. i have a pet turtle wtf WTF
640 days ago
0
Cruel,heartless dumbasses! I hope they get their fingers bitten off,or another part of their anatomy that must be lacking in size.
640 days ago
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Yooo! I called all of these phone numbers last night and no one picked up! Then I just tried them this morning and only one of them did… It was the campground office, and I started out by just saying that the “Snapperfest” should be discontinued. And the lady was just like “oh yeah?” (in such a grumpy, rude voice). I told her it is extremely inhumane, the animals are clearly hurt afterwards, and it is an extremely unfair activity. Then she hung up….. I was so polite, but they are just too arrogant to step up and admit that what they are doing to these poor animals is so wrong!
640 days ago
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What is wrong with people. How can anyone find this entertaining. MONSTERS!!!!!
640 days ago
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I called and was not able to speak to anyone directly, but did leave messages. One number to Shane Koons did not work. We need to have protesting and media coverage of this insane event.
640 days ago
0
The conservation officer is obviously not up on current animal cruelty laws. It didn’t take long to do a google search and find out it does violate current animal cruelty laws: http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title35/ar46/ch3.html
640 days ago
0
its so sad it makes me cry, how can people be so cruel?
I really don’t undestand, I would like to see their heads been torn off fucking insane people.
640 days ago
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Pettitions have never changed anything and never will. Direct action gets the goods.
Or accept that snapper turtles and billions of animals worldwide will continue to suffer because you think your own freedom is worth more than theirs.
640 days ago
0
Information Maintained by the Office of Code Revision Indiana Legislative Services Agency
IC 35-46-3
Chapter 3. Offenses Relating to Animals…
IC 35-46-3-8
…Purchase or possession of animals for contests
Sec. 8. A person who knowingly or intentionally purchases or possesses an animal for the purpose of using the animal in an animal contest commits a Class D felony.
As added by P.L.193-1987, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.171-2007,
IC 35-46-3-0.5
Definitions
(2) “Beat” means to unnecessarily or cruelly strike an animal, or to throw the animal against an object causing the animal to suffer severe pain or injury. The term does not include reasonable training or disciplinary techniques.
(3) “Mutilate” means to wound, injure, maim, or disfigure an animal by irreparably damaging the animal’s body parts or to render any part of the animal’s body useless.
640 days ago
0
Please please stop this. This is so terribly inhuman. You cannot be called a human at any cost if you do these activities. How can you inflict so much pain on an innocent animal. This video made me cry literally after seeing those poor creatures being harrased. Hope God takes their pain away when they are being mutilated like that. God Please please heed to my request. Please teach these F*uckards about humanity.
640 days ago
0
I am ashamed to be human.
640 days ago
0
Who are the Congress representatives for this location? This clearly needs to go higher than the County Commissioners.
640 days ago
0
This is in total violation of the Animal Welfare Act, that much is certain! Who the heck are these people? Barbaric, uncivilized depraved individuals who must have been dropped here from another planet!
640 days ago
0
THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR 14 YEARS??????!!!!!!!!!!!
640 days ago
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I called all the numbers provided here, left messages, and sent emails too, here’s one number everyone should call TODAY, for the Conservation Officer in Ohio County (812-689-4370).I was told that this event does not violate animal abuse laws in Indiana. I told them that it so clearly should, that it is insanely cruel, that I was calling from Canada, there are petitions, the word is spreading. Keep calling and emailing! I thought this event was an internet hoax until I saw this website and the video. Sickening.
640 days ago
0
Information Maintained by the Office of Code Revision Indiana Legislative Services Agency
IC 35-46-3
Chapter 3. Offenses Relating to Animals…
IC 35-46-3-8
…Purchase or possession of animals for contests
Sec. 8. A person who knowingly or intentionally purchases or possesses an animal for the purpose of using the animal in an animal contest commits a Class D felony.
As added by P.L.193-1987, SEC.11. Amended by P.L.171-2007,
IC 35-46-3-0.5
Definitions
(2) “Beat” means to unnecessarily or cruelly strike an animal, or to throw the animal against an object causing the animal to suffer severe pain or injury. The term does not include reasonable training or disciplinary techniques.
(3) “Mutilate” means to wound, injure, maim, or disfigure an animal by irreparably damaging the animal’s body parts or to render any part of the animal’s body useless.
640 days ago
0
sent to all…insanity at its finest…hillbilly rednecks…
640 days ago
0
I have also sent an e-mail to all concerned. How barbaric indeed. How to desensitize children and I don’t know what to say about the participants and audience involved. And for 13 years! They should be ashamed and should actually do some jail time.
640 days ago
0
??? This is barbaric. How is this fun? Destroying a life is not fun.
“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated” – Mahatma Gandhi
Look like the people of Ohio County, Indiana have never evolved.
640 days ago
0
White trash people aint got nothing better to do then this dumb event, all that needs to be said is WHITE TRASH PEOPLE ALL OF THEM.
640 days ago
0
I HATE THEMMMMMMM FOR THE EVIL THAT THEY DO ! POOR TURTLES :’( HOW IN GOD’S NAME THIS EVENT IS EVEN LEGAL???
640 days ago
0
Oh God!!! Theses are really super men !!!
640 days ago
0
I have pity with people that get fun out of animal cruelty and applaud to it. What poor lives they are. Not worth to breath the air on this planet. Disgusting!
640 days ago
0
discusting & cruel. those,who allow this,should be ashamed
640 days ago
0
I cannot believe my eyes what I have just seen, that huge moron beating and torturing that little turtle,and all you people screaming and egging him on what rock did you all crawl out from under.How can you be part of this horrible act, I am gobsmacked that you teach your children that this is ok,IT IS NOT OK AND IT NEVER WILL BE Shame on you Shame
640 days ago
0
WHAT THE FUCK.
640 days ago
0
ginger murphy 3172324143 she books these events or at least has something to do with them
640 days ago
0
these people are sick,these animals cant defend there self,please stop this,
640 days ago
0
hope ya’ll understand that the people listed here as contacts don’t have any authority to stop this nor to change laws. peta- update your contacts to lawmakers. if anyone calls these people, please be kind to them. i called one of the commissioners and i got a lot farther by being kind. not that i agree with harming any animal ever, i do want to let you know that conservation officers have been and will be at this event, and was informed that anyone harming/ cracking shells, trying to cut legs off, etc. will be immediately thrown off the premises.
640 days ago
0
STOP this barbars!! Where are the governments???
640 days ago
0
It’s easy to despise the human race considering how most people are. I’m hoping and praying that the human race goes extinct in our lifetime – this cruelty – done with full awareness and deliberately – needs to end.
640 days ago
0
I am shocked and totally disgusted at how far humans arebable to go to hurt and torture animals. DO NOT allow this SICK event to take place! Will your next choice be to torture ANTS?
SAVE THE TURTLES NOW AND FOREVER
Please stop these damn imbeciles who sadistically take part in this incredibly disgusting event
640 days ago
0
Just the article is enough for me. Didn’t even try to watch the video. What century are we in, for crying outloud!!
640 days ago
0
words cant describe my disgust!!!
640 days ago
0
I can’t watch because I know it will be horrible… I just emailed all of the addresses. I cannot believe that this event happened once much less 14 years. I am disgusted!
640 days ago
0
STOP IT!!!
AT ONCE!!!!!!!!
640 days ago
0
What is wrong with people! Letters have been sent!
640 days ago
0
Are you kidding me? I am so sad sometimes to be a part of the human race. How can people be so vile? And listen to the crowd! How shameful. All people who abuse innocent animals will meet their maker and justce will be done. This makes me sick.
640 days ago
0
What the heck is that – are they quite right in their heads ? NOOOOOOO – they must be sick! Hope somebody is going to wring HIS neck.
Please do whatever possible to stop this primitive game/show ! this is sheer cruelty.
640 days ago
0
I have emailed everyone on the list. This is so unacceptable. Thank you for letting everyone know.
640 days ago
0
E Mails sent & petition signed. All Shared. This has to STOP.. It is beyong comprehension why this is allowed to happen in this day and age …PURE EVIL !!!!!
640 days ago
0
http://www.change.org/petitions/stop-snapperfest
640 days ago
0
That is horrifying. I sent letters, Thanks for posting even though it was very hard to witness.
640 days ago
0
Unbelievable and I’m sorry I can’t open the video because I don’t want to see what these grotesque excuses for human beings are capable of. Utterly sickening – why do people like this exist, and how have they evolved ? Makes me want to commit violence upon them and see them tortured. So very cruel and sad.
640 days ago
0
As they are finest torturing they sit in frond off the cross asking forgiveness for there master. And than they wait for the next animal to torture or woman or child who they can molest.
640 days ago
0
I never watched the video’just the description is enough.
Mindless cruelty’all animal abusers should get the same treatment they dish out.
640 days ago
0
I’m not even going to watch the video. Just the description of the event sickens me. I’ve already sent emails to the county commissioners who have the balls to have an email address out there along with the campground. This is just disgusting.
640 days ago
0
WTF… I couldnt fully watch it, It is sickening- emails sent to all listed above- what sickening things these ”people” are to think this is ok OMG am soooooo angry
640 days ago
0
OMG…absolutely horrifying.
640 days ago
0
What a disgusting imbecilic practise. How on earth is this allowed to continue?? Shame on those stupid ignorant people.
640 days ago
0
voilà l’image typique qu’on a des americains en France!!
des gros cons, sans cervelle et se croyant les rois du monde!!
lamentable!!
640 days ago
0
WHAT IS THAT ???? WHY do people do this ??? And how that can be seen as normal from the officiels ???? Where is the animal protection law ????? What kind of idiots and criminals are living there ?? And the officiels join them ………. The lowest of the low !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
640 days ago
0
That many people enjoying torture…….sad.
640 days ago
0
So this is an organized event that breaks Ohio’s own animal cruelty “laws”? Specifically item (3) No I am not an attorney feel free to correct me if I have misinterpreted anything.
959.13 CRUELTY TO ANIMALS