R v Keefer, Vandyk & Visser, 2017 BCPC 142

Statute: SPCA Act (BC), Wildlife Act (BC),
Section: PCAA s. 24(1); WA s. 34(a)
Province or Territory: British Columbia,
Offence: Abuse, Neglect, Other,
Animal: Cattle, Wildlife (local),
Type of Distress: Physical abuse, lack of veterinary care, neglect, overcrowding
Sentence: Keefer: 7 days imprisonment, one year prohibition order; Vandyk and Visser: 60 days imprisonment to be served intermittently, six month probation, three year prohibition order
Legal Issue: Provincial case (Distress), Provincial case (Due dilligence), Encourage/Aid/Assist, Sentencing (Fines), Sentencing (Imprisonment), Maim/Wound/Injure, Sentencing (Prohibition orders), Suffering, Unnecessary, Wilfulness,

The BC SPCA was alerted to an undercover investigation performed by Mercy for Animals (MFA). One of their employees posed as a worker at Chilliwack Cattle Sales and filmed his experience there. The video depicted numerous acts of violence towards animals, including beating, kicking, stomping and hitting cows.

After a lengthy investigation the BC SPCA recommended 20 charges to crown for Chilliwack Cattle Sales and its employees. The company and all employees have pled guilty.

Keefer, Vandyk and Visser pleaded guilty to section 24(1) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and to section 34(a) of the Wildlife Act.

This case is precedent setting as all individuals charged received jail time for offences against farm animals.

Link: https://canlii.ca/t/h3x6v
Keefer 2017 BCPC 142