Officials continue investigation at Butterball facility

HOKE COUNTY (WTVD) -- Investigators remained at a Butterball facility in Hoke County for a second day Friday as the investigation into allegations of animal cruelty continued.

Officials said they have identified some birds that may need to be euthanized, but did not give specific numbers.

The investigation at the facility near Shannon, NC began after a complaint was filed with the Hoke County District Attorney by the animal rights group Mercy for Animals.

The group said one of its members went undercover and got a job at the facility to videotape conditions.

Mercy for Animals posted an edited clip of its video at the web site www.butterballabuse.com. The video appears to show workers kicking and stomping turkeys. The video also shows injured birds with open wounds.

Late Friday, investigators wrapped up their inspection of turkeys at the Butterball farm. The sheriff's office says it could have a decision on criminal charges, if any, early next week.

In a statement to ABC11 on Thursday, Butterball said it works to insure the wellbeing of animals on its farms and has a zero tolerance policy against employees who abuse birds.

"We are currently working with Hoke County government officials regarding allegations of animal cruelty at a farm in North Carolina. Butterball takes these allegations very seriously and fully supports the efforts being made on the part of officials," it said.

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