Following a nearly month-and-a-half long investigation, the Pennsylvania Game Commission has charged two Brookville teenagers who recorded themselves brutally torturing and killing a deer and posted the videos on social media.
Suspects Alexander Brock Smith, 18, and a 17-year-old minor each face two felony counts of aggravated animal cruelty, two felony counts of conspiracy to commit aggravated animal cruelty, and numerous misdemeanor and summary counts, according to an official Pennsylvania Game Commission press release.
Footage of the barbaric attack, which surfaced online last month, depicts two teenagers repeatedly kicking and striking the terrified buck as he tries desperately to flee. The culprits are also seen stepping on the deer’s neck, stomping on his head, and ripping off one of his antlers, all while laughing throughout their disturbing acts.
The videos went viral, sparking outrage among activists and prompting demands for authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice.
A Lady Freethinker petition urging Jefferson County District Attorney Jeff Burkett to call for a major intervention to prevent the suspects from harming any more animals garnered over 29,500 signatures. Thank you to everyone who signed and supported this ongoing case.
To those who haven’t, signatures are still necessary. It is imperative that these men’s sentences include intensive intervention and psychological therapy to ensure they don’t grow up to be serial animal abusers. Please, sign to push for a strong prosecution.
SIGN: Justice for Deer Beaten, Antlers Ripped Off by Laughing Teens in Snapchat Video
The Pennsylvania Game Commission launched an investigation immediately after learning about the videos. Both defendants allegedly confirmed that they were hunting together on a Jefferson County property owned by Smith’s family on the day of the incident in question, the agency’s press release stated.
Smith was released on a $50,000 unsecured bail. If convicted, he faces possible incarceration and up to $15,000 in fines.
The other teen’s case will be handled in juvenile court.
