November 7, 2024

Fur Commission USA Shocked by Lenient Bail for Attackers Who Continue to Threaten Farming Community

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Fur Commission USA is shocked by the lenient bail decision in the case of two attackers after a terroristic assault on Richard H Stahl Sons Inc., a legal, humane certified, family-run mink farm. Reducing bail to 10% of the original amount and removing protective conditions sends a troubling message, downplaying the serious threat these attackers and the groups they associate with pose to our farming community.

 

“These attackers are a real danger to all farming communities,” said Challis Hobbs, Executive Director of Fur Commission USA. “This farm, like many others across the U.S., has faced routine harassment, threats, intimidation, and even violent attacks that cause serious harm to the farm, animals, and local community. With these terrorists caught in the act, we have a critical opportunity to show that terrorizing farmers and destroying their life’s work is illegal and will have consequences.”​
 

In recent years, multiple attacks on fur farms have caused millions in damages nationwide. Farmers endure almost monthly harassment and threats aimed at ruining them financially and personally. Ironically, these attacks also harm the very animals activists claim to protect; most of the mink raised in captivity do not survive in the wild and often die within days if not recovered by the farmer.

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By granting reduced bail, the decision only emboldens extremist activists to continue their attacks on farmers. This leniency risks fueling more violence against rural communities, threatening not only the livelihood of farmers but also the American rural way of life. Fur Commission USA calls for accountability for these violent acts to protect farmers and their families.

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